Encrypted radio transmissions are often used in police and fire departments to secure and protect communications, but some agencies are finding that the risks of encryption outweigh the rewards. Radio encryption uses coded algorithms to modify voice signals so people listening on radio scanners can’t understand what’s being said. Some emergency response agencies are turning off their radio encryption because it can prevent messages from being received by nearby safety departments that have legacy equipment or no access to the required encryption keys. Why are first responders turning away from radio encryption?