User guide

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10. Do wireless device accessories that claim to
shield the head from RF radiation work?
Since there are no known risks from exposure to RF
emissions from wireless devices, there is no reason
to believe that accessories that claim to shield the
head from those emissions reduce risks. Some
products that claim to shield the user from RF
absorption use special device cases, while others
involve nothing more than a metallic accessory
attached to the device. Studies have shown that
these products generally do not work as advertised.
Unlike “hand-free” kits, these so-called “shields” may
interfere with proper operation of the device. The
device may be forced to boost its power to
compensate, leading to an increase in RF absorption.
In February 2002, the Federal trade Commission
(FTC) charged two companies that sold devices that
claimed to protect wireless device users from
radiation with making false and unsubstantiated
claims. According to FTC, these defendants lacked a
reasonable basis to substantiate their claim.