Austin public safety agencies to switch to new radio encryption system

Julianna Russ
·1 min read
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AUSTIN (KXAN) — Public safety agencies in Austin are expected to switch to a new radio audio encryption system beginning April 22, according to the City of Austin.

The Austin Police Department will begin to use the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) on all its patrol sector radio talk groups to protect community members when responding to incidents and investigating criminal activity.

Austin-Travis County EMS and the Austin Fire Department will also use AES radio audio encryption, according to the city.

“Encryption protects personal and confidential information of members of the public interacting with law enforcement and also is a best practice for tactical, operational and investigatory security purposes,” the city said.

Public safety agencies are still expected to continue to communicate with the public and news agencies on issues of interest and/or safety, according to the city.

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