been wondering about this for a while... like if someone with a tech license accidentally transmits on 20m voice or something, how would the FCC even know unless someone reports it? not that im planning to do this just curious about enforcement. heard stories both ways - some say they have monitoring stations everywhere, others say they only investigate complaints

also what actually happens if you get caught? is it automatic fine or do they give warnings first

they absolutely can and will find out if you make it a habit. the FCC has automated monitoring systems and volunteer monitors too. plus other hams will notice if you're operating outside your privileges - we tend to police ourselves pretty well in this hobby

as for penalties, first offense might get you a warning letter but repeat violations or blatant disregard can result in fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, or even license revocation in serious cases. not worth the risk when you can just upgrade your license instead

Yeah dont mess around with that stuff. I know a guy who got a notice from the FCC for operating on 40m phone with his tech license - apparently someone reported him. He got off with just a warning but it scared him straight. The volunteer monitoring coordinator in our area says they do spot checks and will investigate any complaints they receive