AUSTIN, Texas — Previously public information will soon become private in Austin and Travis County.
Starting April 22, Austin first responders will no longer allow radio audio to be accessed by the general population.
The Austin Police Department, Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (ATCEMS) and the Austin Fire Department are preparing to shift to an Advanced Encryption Standard, AES.
Following this change in encryption, radio communication will only be accessible among members of these citywide organizations.
The reason? According to a press release shared Wednesday by the city of Austin, the updates are a way to ensure safety and protect private information from being accessed by unwanted listeners.
"For example, non-encrypted communication can provide criminals with advance warning of police actions and law enforcement tactics, and movements could be compromised," the release stated. "Secured emergency channels can help ensure emergency responders arrive safely and securely."
The press release also said first responders plan to continue sharing information with the public and the media using press releases, social media accounts, live in-person updates and more.
Other Texas cities that use encryption
While Austin-Travis County is new to encryption, some Texas cities have been implementing the audio blocker for awhile now.
In Central Texas, various city agencies using AES include New Braunfels, San Marcos, Williamson County, San Antonio and Kerrville.
Throughout the state, Houston, Galveston and Fort Worth are also among those who use AES in some capacity.
On a national level, the press release also shared that cities like Denver, Baltimore and San Francisco have also implemented this change.
In just a few days, Austin, too will be added to the list.