The Austin Police Department has made the transition to Advanced Encryption Standard radio audio encryption on all Patrol Sector radio talk groups in the Greater Austin/Travis County Regional Radio System. Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services and the Austin Fire Department are also no using AES radio audio encryption for all communication that does not involve collaboration with other jurisdictions.
Many large cities across the country use AES radio audio encryption, and the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has long advised that encryption is the primary means for protecting confidentiality, and provide authentication for sensitive communications.
According to APD, non-encrypted communication can provide criminals with advance warning of police actions and law enforcement tactics, and movements could be compromised. Secured emergency channels, the department says, can help ensure emergency responders arrive safely and secure the scene.
“This is a positive move for the City of Austin and, in particular, the Austin Police Department,” said Interim Assistant City Manager Bruce Mills, who oversees public safety. “Encrypting radio communication means we can do a better job of keeping our community members and emergency responders safe during an ongoing security threat.”
Other major local jurisdictions that have implemented the use of AES radio for best practices include Denver, San Francisco, San Diego County, Baltimore, Chicago, New York, and Fort Worth.
