ENID, OK - (July 15, 2026) - Curtis D. Tucker, Enid Buzz
The Enid Police Department announced on Wednesday that they will begin to encrypt their radio communications.
The decision was not made to hide anything from the public. The decision was made to ensure the safety of police officers and protect the privacy of the residents of Enid.
Information shared over open radio channels can spread quickly - even while incidents are still unfolding. Apps can use Al to transcribe situations and put them out to users, sometimes creating unnecessary panic.
EPD has battled with false reports of shooting events (called in by someone suffering a mental crisis) and had the real-time locations of officers posted to social media during actual active shooter events.
While many residents listen to radio traffic with good intentions, the same information can be accessed by those who wish to do harm.
Encryption is an important step to protect the safety of the officers and other law enforcement agencies responding to dangerous situations. Encryption will also protect the privacy of those the police department encounters during their shifts, including victims.
