Privacy codes aren't privacy
What they really do
- Filter out other people's chatter
- Your radio stays quiet unless the code matches
- Like a mute button for strangers
What they don't do
- They don't scramble your voice
- Anyone with a scanner hears everything
- Mismatched codes stop family from hearing you
Don't say on the air
Exact addresses
Use a landmark name only the family knows
What supplies you have
Fuel, food and generators attract attention
When the house is empty
Don't announce departures
Codes and passwords
Keep them off the radio
Simple family tricks
- Agree on code names for places"The barn" for the ranch, "Base" for home
- Use first names onlyNo last names on the air
- Keep messages vague"Heading to the barn" not "leaving with the fuel"
- Encryption is illegal on GMRSSo plan on being overheard
Remember
Talk on the radio as if a stranger is always listening, because one may be.
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Answer key
- What do privacy codes actually do?Filter out other users so you don't hear themThey're a filter, not encryption.
- Can strangers hear your GMRS conversations?Yes, anyone with a radio or scanner can listenAssume someone is always listening.
- Is encryption allowed on GMRS?NoEncryption is not allowed, so plan to be overheard.
- Which is safe to say on the air?"Heading to the barn"Use family code names for places.
- What happens if two family radios have different privacy codes?They may not hear each otherCodes must match exactly, or be off.