text: Communications
  Duress Codeword
  6-44. A duress code is a simple word placed in a message to indicate the sending station is not under
  duress (Table 6-3). A duress code requires planning and rehearsal to ensure an appropriate response. This
  code is normally changed after each mission to avoid compromise.
  • Only the team, the COB, the AOB and--if used, the MSS--know the duress code.
  • The sending station inserts the code into a precise location in the message so the receiving
  station will know they did so deliberately, not under coercion. Each team and BRS has a
  different duress code.
  Situation Normal
  • Sender includes duress code in the correct location.
  • Recipient responds to content of message.
  Situation Compromised
  • Sender omits the duress code.
  • Recipients ignore content of message and responds to the emergency by initiating compromise
  procedures.
  Table 6-3. Procedure for use of duress codes.
  Situation Sender Recipient
  Normal Include duress code Respond to content
  Compromised Omit duress code Initiate compromise procedures
  REPORT FORMAT
  6-45. Information is placed into a report format (Figure 6-4) to aid encryption, decryption and
  information recognition. Using a report format makes even partially received messages useful, because the
  information is more recognizable. The message is divided into three parts.
  Figure 6-4. Report format.