At the London Olympics, performance-enhancing substances aren’t the only form of contraband that the authorities are keeping an eye out for.

The London Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games banned 3G Wi-Fi hotspots at the Games, mainly because of the massive amount of wireless traffic that accompanies an event of this size. After all, wireless technology helps make the modern Games run. It’s used in everything from communications between referees, judges and scorers to the high-tech devices that measures times and distances in amazingly small increments.

Obviously, the addition of unauthorized hotspots to this already-busy mix is something the LOCOG wanted to avoid from the outset. As sound as their reasoning may be, however, Olympic organizers probably could’ve handled the public relations angle on the hotspot ban a little more skillfully.

A member of the 'Wi-Fi Police' patrols the Olympic Games in London.

Poorly executed enforcement?

The public might agree with the sentiment behind the hotspot ban, but they can’t help poking fun at the enforcement.

Say hello to the Wi-Fi Police.

These operatives are regularly seen patrolling the games with their bright orange signal trackers, apparently ready to report rogue hotspots to the proper authorities. The above photo was reportedly taken by an employee of Ryan Seacrest’s production company.

The thousands of global citizens gathered for this athletic and cultural spectacle probably expected more from the country that gave us James Bond.

Still, the hotspot situation at the Olympics highlights the importance of wireless capacity all over the globe. No doubt the LOCOG would’ve found use for a high-tech 4G network like the ones that thousands of Americans enjoy courtesy of CLEAR and other wireless providers.

From worldwide gatherings to trips to the grocery store, the public’s hunger for wireless capacity is nothing short of Olympian.