Why might railroads implement encryption in their radio communications?

Implementing encryption in radio communications is primarily driven by the necessity to protect sensitive information from interception. Railroads handle various forms of sensitive data, including operational details, security information, and customer-related data. By utilizing encryption, the information transmitted over radio waves is scrambled, making it nearly impossible for unauthorized entities to access or interpret the content. This is especially crucial in an environment where communication can be monitored or intercepted by third parties, thereby safeguarding the operational integrity of the railroad and enhancing overall security.

While enhancing signal strength and reducing noise, complying with regulations, or simplifying the communication process are important considerations in radio communications, they do not directly address the primary goal of encryption. Encryption specifically targets the confidentiality of information, ensuring that only authorized users can decode and understand the transmitted messages.