11/13/2024
Many of you have seen the following release by Lynchburg Police Department. They will be encrypting their radio transmissions and you will not be able to hear them on the G4 or G5 pagers or any scanner, or scanner app. There is no work around for this once it is done your scanner, pager or app will still work only on non encrypted channels. At this time Lynchburg Fire, Amherst, Bedford, Campbell will remain unencrypted. Also I have been told that sometime in the near future of November VSP will also be encrypting their channels as well.
See the release sent our by LPD today via Facebook
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 13, 2024
LPD to Encrypt Radio Communications
Lynchburg, VA – The Lynchburg Police Department (LPD) will soon begin to encrypt its radio transmissions. The encryption of public safety radio communications is a widely deployed technology that ensures the privacy and security of the information that is sent over digital radio networks and enhances the safety of law enforcement personnel. The LPD radio system is licensed by the Federal Communications Commission, and encryption is an allowed feature under the license.
The implementation of encryption for radio communications is being done for several key reasons:
Protecting Sensitive Information
Law enforcement radio transmissions often include sensitive personally identifiable information, such as details about suspects, victims, or witnesses, which can include social security numbers, dates of birth, driver’s license details, and personal addresses. Encryption limits information from being exposed for potential misuse by criminals.
Preventing Real-Time Monitoring by Criminals
Current technology allows criminals to easily intercept unencrypted radio communications using low-cost scanners, software, or free apps on cell phones. This can provide them with critical insights into police activities, enabling them to evade law enforcement and hinder response efforts. LPD officers have encountered this on several occasions.
Securing Tactical Operations and Officer Safety
During high-risk situations, such as tactical deployments, undercover investigations, or major crime responses, encryption ensures that tactical information remains secure, and that officer safety is enhanced. Unencrypted transmissions could expose strategic details, which criminals or hostile parties could exploit, disrupting operations or endangering officers.
Evolving with Technological Advancements
Encryption technology has become increasingly accessible and reliable, allowing police departments to maintain operational efficiency while ensuring their communications remain secure.
Commitment to Public Transparency
Public transparency continues to be a top priority for the Lynchburg Police Department. In line with this commitment, we have launched a tool for accessing computer aided dispatch (CAD) call information. By clicking the CAD Calls link below, the public can view a current list of calls along with a map displaying their approximate locations.
This tool provides easy and quick access to call data. To ensure officer safety, preserve operational integrity, and protect the privacy of individuals involved, there will be a minor delay in posting calls to the website. In addition, LPD will continue to provide timely updates on critical incidents through social media and official news releases.
LPD will be conducting a one-day test of the new encrypted radio system on November 14, from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Full implementation of the system is expected by early December.
LPD appreciates the public's understanding as we transition to this new system. The CAD Calls tool, in particular, will serve as a valuable resource for reviewing police incidents throughout the city.
CAD CALLS TOOL
https://lynchburgpolice.policetocitizen.com/CADCalls
LPD will maintain the ability to communicate with our partner public safety agencies in the region through the use of our current unencrypted communications.
