LONDON, England (CNN) -- A high-pitched device used to combat anti-social behavior among young people has been called "unfair" by children's campaigners in England.

The Children's Commissioner for England, who oversees children's rights, has called for a ban on the ultra-sonic gadget, known as "The Mosquito," which disperses young people by emitting sharp, piercing sounds.

The device causes discomfort to younger ears by exploiting their ability to hear very high frequencies -- a power which declines once they reach their 20s.

Launching the "Buzz Off" campaign, England's Children's Commissioner Al Aynsley-Green said: "I have spoken to many children and young people from all over England who have been deeply affected by ultra-sonic teenage deterrents."

Aynsley-Green said about 3,500 of the devices are in use across England to split up gatherings of youth in areas such as parks and shops.

"These devices are indiscriminate and target all children and young people, including babies, regardless of whether they are behaving or misbehaving," he added.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/europe/02/12/uk.mosquito/index.html