The use of VSAT equipment without authorisation from the national regulator is prohibited in all countries.

Penalties vary, but can be quite high even in relaxed regulatory regimes:

• In France the maximum penalty is 30,000 euros and/or a six-month jail sentence.
• In Germany it can be as high as 500,000 Euros
• Nigeria charges up to $1,000,000 in fines

In addition to fines, most countries also confiscate the unauthorised equipment.