by Seattle Police Department

Seattle Police will keep main dispatch channels open, but will enhance encryption on radio channels used for tactical communications and sharing sensitive and personal information. 

In Quarter 2 of 2026, the Seattle Police Department (SPD) will enhance encryption to radios used for tactical communications among our personnel. Encrypting radio communications means radio transmissions can only be heard internally by the intended audience. The primary reason SPD has chosen to encrypt radios is to enhance the safety of community members and first responders, and to protect the public’s sensitive information from being shared to a wide audience.  

This technology upgrade is possible because of the move to a new digital radio system in King County as part of the Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network (PSERN) initiative. The new radio system allows first responders, particularly law enforcement, fire and EMS, to better communicate and dispatch emergency and other government services countywide. The new PSERN radio system has improved coverage, capabilities and security versus traditional analog radio systems. 

Reasons for encryption:  

For law enforcement agencies, encrypting radios preserves operational integrity and improves the safety of officers and the communities they serve. When channels remain open, they can be accessed by all individuals, including some who may be actively engaging in criminal activity or behavior. There are several local and national incidents where suspects have used scanners to evade arrest or disrupt police operations in real-time. When officers suspect their movements are being monitored, they may resort to “radio silence” to avoid compromise, which can significantly reduce coordination and increase risk during dynamic situations.  

Law enforcement officials often communicate information regarding data that is personal and sensitive, including names, addresses, dates of birth, driver’s license numbers, access codes and other private information. Names of victims and witnesses may also be spoken over the radio, and encryption helps to protect their identity. 

What’s changing:  

SPD’s dispatch channels, which communicate when and where incidents are occurring, will remain open for the public to hear via radio scanners. The department will encrypt channels that transmit the following: 

• Information regarding a person’s identity  

• Witness and victim names 

• Sensitive building access data  

• Tactical communications 

Committed to sharing information:  

The SPD values transparency and remains committed to sharing information with the public and media about significant incidents as they are unfolding. Here are ways to stay informed:  

• Follow SPD on social media: X, Facebook, Instagram 

• Subscribe to SPD’s Blotter to receive recaps of significant incidents  

• Members of the media can email SPD’s public information officer account to request information 

The right to access information: 

Encryption does not change the public’s legal right to access information. Members of the public and media can file a public disclosure request via the City’s online portal to request encrypted radio communications.