Two-way radios, also known as walkie-talkies, are short range devices that enable two or more users to communicate with one another. They are heavily relied upon for secure communications, whether it’s in a professional setting by first responders in Western Canada and hotel staff or simply for recreational use like camping trips and off-road adventures.
But how can you be sure that your conversations are truly secure? Is there some way to guarantee that your two-way radio signal won’t get intercepted by any unwanted third parties? Today, we’ll be exploring these questions and what you can do to protect your business from would be intruders.
What Are Two Way Radios?
Two-way radios are communication devices that allow two or more people to communicate with one another over a relatively limited distance. They are typically handheld units and feature both transmit and receive functions. Two-way radios are popular for their portability, light weight, and ease of use, making them useful for both recreational and business applications.
In the business world, two-way radios can be used for everything from coordinating teams in warehouses to patrolling property grounds by security personnel. They offer an effective and reliable form of communication between team members who might not otherwise be able to coordinate effectively due to distance or other obstructions. In addition, they remain viable even in areas where cellular service may be unreliable.
For recreational use, two-way radios are popular for a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping and hiking in Edmonton or Calgary. They allow users to stay in contact with each other even when there is no cell phone coverage available. This can be especially beneficial if one member of the group gets lost or injured, as they can easily call out for help without having to worry about relying on a potentially spotty cell signal.
Can Walkie Talkies be Traced?
Two-way radios can be traced, but the process is complicated. Tracing involves detecting and analyzing the radio waves released by the two-way radio when it is switched on. Radio triangulation, trilateration or fox hunting are techniques used to track down these signals and thus locate the radio.
However, these techniques require that all three points of reference have a direct line of sight with each other to accurately determine location. This means that obstacles such as weather conditions, terrain features, or buildings will affect signal strength and accuracy of tracing. In addition, the signal strength weakens over time due to distance from the radio wave source.
Can Walkie Talkies be Hacked?
Two-way radios are susceptible to being hacked, depending on the type of device and security measures in place. Hackers can gain access by exploiting vulnerabilities in the software or hardware of a two-way radio system. With access, hackers may be able to intercept or manipulate messages sent through the system, as well as take control of other features such as GPS tracking.
It’s important to note that hacking is different from scanning. Scanning is when someone with an unauthorized receiver listens in on conversations without accessing the frequency itself—so it’s harder to detect because you don’t know who is listening in. To combat this issue, many two-way radios now come equipped with technology which uses a PL code to limit the number of people who can access messages on the network. Hacking is more serious, however, as people with malicious intent may be able to manipulate messages or take control of a device’s features.
Can Walkie Talkies be Intercepted?
Two-way radios offer a convenient way to communicate at short or long distances. However, without proper precautions, it is possible for unauthorized users to intercept your communication. This is because many two-way radio frequencies are open and accessible by anyone with the right equipment.
If you want to ensure that your conversations remain secure, then you may need to consider using licensed radios. A licensed radio allows you to apply for a license from the FCC or ISED which grants you exclusive access to a unique radio frequency. This means that no one else will be able to access it and thus cannot eavesdrop on your conversations.
Although licensed radios provide more secure and reliable communication, the licensing process does have costs. As such, it is important to consider if the added security is worth the additional cost before investing in one.
How to Find a Lost Walkie Talkie
Finding a lost two-way radio can be done using a few basic methods. First, use the receiver with a directional tool to find out the location of the other end. A directional antenna will read in which direction the signal is coming from and allow you to locate the source more accurately.
To pinpoint its exact location, it might be necessary to have two receivers with directional antennas, so that triangulation can be used. Triangulation requires two points from which you measure the distance and allows you to find the precise location of your target device.
What Additional Security Measures Can Be Taken?
It is important for two-way radio users to understand what additional security measures can be taken to ensure the safety of their conversations. Encryption features are a great first step, but there are several other measures that can be implemented to increase the level of security even further.
One measure that can be taken by two-way radio users is regularly updating firmware and software on all device models. This ensures that any vulnerabilities in the system are patched and eliminated, thus keeping conversations safe from malicious actors. Additionally, it is recommended that users install reputable security applications on each device to protect against malware or malicious software.
Contact Tridon Communications Today
Two-way radios are generally considered a secure form of communication when used properly. As long as users take the proper precautions – such as encryption, situational awareness, and adhering to their device manufacturer’s security protocols – they can rest assured that their conversations will remain private and secure. With these measures in place, your Alberta two-way radios remain one of the most reliable forms of short-range communication available. For more information, contact one of our experts at Tridon Communications today.
