Can I listen to Massachusetts State Police on a police scanner?

No. Massachusetts State Police has fully encrypted their radio communications using P25 AES-256. No consumer scanner can decode encrypted transmissions.

Why did Massachusetts State Police encrypt their radio?

Police departments typically cite officer safety and operational security as reasons for encryption. However, encryption also eliminates public oversight, prevents journalists from monitoring police activity, and can harm emergency coordination with other agencies.

Can Commonwealth Wide County reverse the encryption decision?

Yes. Encryption is a policy choice, not a technical requirement. Multiple communities have successfully reversed encryption decisions through public pressure, city council advocacy, and coalition building. See our guide on fighting encryption for specific strategies.

What can I do about Massachusetts State Police encryption?

You can: 1) Contact your local elected officials to express concerns, 2) Attend city council meetings during budget discussions, 3) File FOIA requests for radio recordings, 4) Join or build a local coalition advocating for transparency, 5) Support legislation requiring public access to police communications.

Police Department Fully Encrypted

Massachusetts State Police

Q: Is Massachusetts State Police radio encrypted?

Yes. Massachusetts State Police uses P25 AES-256 encryption. This agency encrypts all of their radio communications, including routine dispatch. The public, journalists, and even other first responders cannot monitor their activities.

Commonwealth Wide, Massachusetts

Encryption Details

Encryption Type P25 AES-256

Scope Troop B Radio Techs, Troop F Secure TG's

Technical Details P25 AES-256

What This Means

This agency encrypts all of their radio communications, including routine dispatch. The public, journalists, and even other first responders cannot monitor their activities.

Impact on Transparency

Journalists cannot monitor police activity for breaking news or investigative reporting
Community members cannot track police response to incidents in their neighborhood
Researchers cannot study police communication patterns and response times
Other first responders may face interoperability challenges during emergencies

Massachusetts State Police Commonwealth Wide, Massachusetts

! Loading encrypted agencies in Commonwealth Wide County, Massachusetts... Browse agencies

Who do you want to contact?

Your Name

Your City

Personal Story (Optional) Personal stories make your message more impactful

Getting Started

Campaign Tools

Strategic Actions

Quick Response

Featured Cases

City & Regional

State Analyses

Databases & Tools

Learn & Understand

Scanner Guides

Research & Policy

For Stakeholders

About & Support

Massachusetts State Police

Encryption Details

What This Means

Impact on Transparency

Take Action