Radio Encrypt

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nra582

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Dec 29, 2003
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I've noticed several mentions on here of PDs on SWRCN that are going encrypted. Is it true that some agencies switch back and forth between using encryption? I've seen some posts implying that PDs that were encrypted suddenly are in the clear for a day, and go back to encrypted? Can anyone elaborate on this further, i.e. why would an agency that's paid the big bucks for encryption switch back and forth?

I'm recently getting back into the hobby after some time away. Sad to see so many of the formally very active agencies now un-monitorable.
 

AMDXP

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It really depends on the department, and their experiences. Some are using encryption exclusively and only turning it off in rare or accidental instances. Some are using it only for sensitive situations.

Really it depends on the Chief or Sheriff of each Department. Unfortunately most are totally encrypting instead of encrypting or using dedicated encrypted channels in sensitive situations.
 

jackj

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Some agencies only encrypt certain Talk Groups while all their others are in the clear. Other agencies encrypt their entire RF communications system. As Patrick said, it depends on the head of the agency and what he/she feels is best for them. I have read recently of agencies using time limited keys that revert back to unencrypted when the key expires. I was under the impression that each new controller grant generated a new key and that key expired when the grant expired. Either I'm wrong or the people who wrote the articles are wrong.

It would make sense to me that if an agency is going to encrypt some of their communication then they should encrypt all. That would eliminate the possibility of an operator forgetting to turn on encryption.

I think you will see more and more agencies using encryption on their entire communication system(s). The actual encryption takes place in the digital modems and really is only a programing option, key handling may require added hardware but the cost of encryption should be minimal.
 

Swipesy

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If the general public has not learned a lesson from the fiasco that is/has taken place in Cuyahoga County with all the corruption then shame on them. There is no reason that the small community police departments need to operate in total secrecy. Stakeouts, etc. yes, but traffic stops, assistance calls etc. no. Citizens cannot allow government agencies to operate in total secrecy. We must learn from history.
 

ohiodesperado

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If the general public has not learned a lesson from the fiasco that is/has taken place in Cuyahoga County with all the corruption then shame on them. There is no reason that the small community police departments need to operate in total secrecy. Stakeouts, etc. yes, but traffic stops, assistance calls etc. no. Citizens cannot allow government agencies to operate in total secrecy. We must learn from history.

You have NO specific reason to be able to monitor public safety. If you did, you would have issued to you a radio with the encryption keys loaded in it. There is not a single regulation anywhere in part 90 that requires traffic stops, or any other public safety communication to be unencrypted.

Being mad about it because you can't listen in isn't justification for them to be denied the ability to do it.
 

jackj

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ohiodesperado, I think you are missing Swipesy point. He feels, as I do, that general operations for public agencies should be an open book and that includes radio communication. Just as governments can't conduct business behind closed doors (Sunshine Laws), police and fire agencies shouldn't hide behind encryption.

I can argue both sides of this issue. I understand the needs and desires of both and a wiser head than mine will be required set policy on the issue of encryption.
 
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