News Release: Transition to Encrypted Radio Communications

Published on July 10, 2026

City of Fairfax Police Department
3730 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, Virginia 22030

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Transition to Encrypted Radio Communications

CITY OF FAIRFAX — Effective July 13, 2026, the Police Department will transition our primary police dispatch radio channel to encrypted communications.

The City of Fairfax Police Department operates on the Fairfax County Public Safety Radio System, which is transitioning its primary police dispatch channels to encrypted communications. This change aligns with similar efforts by law enforcement agencies throughout the National Capital Region.

Encryption helps protect sensitive information that is routinely communicated by radio, such as names, home addresses, dates of birth, medical information, details involving victims, and individuals experiencing a crisis.

Additionally, encryption helps protect the safety of community members and officers by reducing the potential for real-time monitoring and redistribution of sensitive police communications through scanner applications and online streaming services to individuals seeking to misuse the information.

What is changing?

• Effective July 13, 2026, the Department's primary police dispatch radio channel will no longer be available through scanner applications or online radio streaming services.

What is not changing?

• Residents should continue to call 911 for emergencies and the Police Department's non-emergency number, 703-385-7924, for non-emergency assistance.
• Officers will continue to respond to calls for service as they do today.
• The Department will continue to communicate and coordinate with local and regional public safety partners.
• The Department remains committed to providing timely, accurate, and transparent information to the public and the media.

While primary dispatch radio communications will be encrypted, the City of Fairfax Police Department's commitment to transparency remains unchanged. The Department will continue to provide public information through a variety of official communication channels, including:

• Fairfax City Alert (Everbridge): Subscribe to receive emergency notifications and other public safety information. Residents, businesses, and visitors can register or manage their alert preferences by visiting www.fairfaxva.gov/FairfaxCityAlert.
• Police Department Website: Visit www.fairfaxva.gov/police for news releases, community bulletins, crime prevention information, and other public safety resources.
• The Department's official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
• Direct communication with members of the media.
• On-scene or virtual media briefings during significant incidents.

While the method of radio communications is changing, we remain committed to transparency and balancing the responsibility to protect sensitive personal information and the safety of the community.

Inquiries: Captain Andrew Hawkins, Public Information Office, 703-273-2889 or public.information@fairfaxva.gov

###