Why can't they track number stations?

  • Thread starter houlahound
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Track
In summary, there is a mysterious and intriguing form of communication known as number stations, which are coded RF broadcasts believed to be used by spies during the Cold War. They have continued to exist, with new ones emerging, and can be easily accessed and monitored by anyone with a commercial receiver. Despite the capabilities of agencies like the NSA, these stations remain hidden in plain sight and are not widely exposed by amateurs, possibly due to lack of interest or concern.
  • #1
houlahound
908
223
Or why don't they?

All the mystique around them I would have thought even amateur's would do it for fun.

What/why are they still a mystery?

Or am I missing something?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
What is a number station?
 
  • #3
Cant do links but put in YouTube and listen to some. Basically coded RF broadcasts presumably spies that started in the cold war, mostly repetitive. They slowed down a bit after the cold war but very many have never stopped.

I think there are new ones now. Better than the internet because the internet is point to point, easy to locate and monitor.

These stations only need a commercial receiver, everyone and anyone can listen from almost anywhere, perfectly hidden in plain sight.

Of course only the intended receiver knows the presumably once only key code.
Lots of amateur sites publish the frequencies, just google it. Thousands of transmissions are recorded and you can listen to them.
 
  • #4
The NSA is pretty capable, and very secretive. What evidence do you have that NSA can not track them if they want to?
 
  • #5
Well govs tend to deny they e ist, even when yoygive them instructions, I asked my fed authority re ham licences and they didn't say much of value.
 
  • #6
Is there any science or engineering in your question?
 
  • #7
Yes is there any technical reason why the transmitters have not been exposed by amateurs already.

Seems like a retirement project to do.
 
  • #9
houlahound said:
Yes is there any technical reason why the transmitters have not been exposed by amateurs already.

probably because we are not interested and don't care about them
 

Related to Why can't they track number stations?

1. Why are number stations difficult to track?

Number stations are difficult to track because they are intentionally designed to be secretive and elusive. They use various methods to hide their signals, such as changing frequencies and locations, using encrypted messages, and broadcasting at irregular intervals. This makes it challenging for authorities to pinpoint their exact location and purpose.

2. Can modern technology track number stations?

While modern technology has advanced significantly, it still has limitations when it comes to tracking number stations. These stations use shortwave radio frequencies, which are difficult to trace and can cover large distances. Additionally, many number stations use sophisticated encryption techniques, making it challenging to decipher their messages.

3. Why can't governments shut down number stations?

Governments often struggle to shut down number stations because they operate in other countries or in remote areas with limited access. These stations are also difficult to trace and monitor, making it challenging for authorities to gather enough evidence to take action. Additionally, some governments may choose to leave number stations operating to gather intelligence on other countries.

4. Are there any efforts to track number stations?

Yes, various groups and individuals have attempted to track and decode number stations. However, due to the secrecy surrounding these stations, it is a challenging and time-consuming task. Some organizations, such as the Numbers Stations Research and Information Center, work to document and analyze number station broadcasts.

5. Are number stations still in use today?

Yes, number stations are still in use today, although their numbers have decreased compared to the Cold War era. It is believed that some governments still use them for covert communications, while others may be operated by spy agencies or criminal organizations. As long as there is a need for secretive communication, number stations will likely continue to exist.

Similar threads

  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
3
Views
346
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
22
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
854
  • DIY Projects
Replies
12
Views
666
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
10
Views
3K
Replies
10
Views
631
Replies
17
Views
990
Back
Top