Iran Broadcasts Encrypted Code via ‘Numbers Stations’ to Neighboring Countries

Iranian “numbers stations” broadcasting to nearby countries have reportedly started sending encrypted messages made up of numbers, words, or letters.

This is according to a report by Russian Arms telegram.

Numbers radio stations are long-range broadcasts whose operators are usually not publicly identified. These transmissions typically consist of strings of numbers, letters, or words read aloud by a human speaker or a computer-generated voice. Intelligence analysts have long associated such broadcasts with covert communication between governments and their agents, including personnel operating undercover.

The system relies on encrypted messages that generally require a matching code pad to decode. Without access to that pad, the encrypted sequence is usually impossible to interpret. Code pads are often issued to specific recipients and can be destroyed after use, making interception and decryption difficult.

Another characteristic of numbers radio transmissions is that the recipient does not need to establish any connection to receive the message. The listener only needs to tune a radio receiver at a specific time and frequency. Unlike internet or cellular communications, this passive method leaves no trace that the message has been received.

The infrastructure required for such transmissions is minimal. A standard radio transmitter, an ordinary radio receiver, and a cipher system—sometimes as simple as a notebook used for code pads—are sufficient to operate the system.

The reported activation of these broadcasts suggests that Tehran may be attempting to send instructions to individuals located in neighboring countries. However, the intended recipients and the content of the transmissions remain unknown. Some analysts say the signals could be meant for intelligence operatives operating abroad, but there is no public confirmation.