Patent ID: 7603104

Claim:
In a system of operating a wireless handset capable of clear calls and secure calls, a method comprising: entering a personal identification number (PIN) each time the wireless handset is activated to register as a secure user to allow a secure call; pressing a send/talk key for a predetermined amount of time; determining whether the handset is in a traditional mode, in an autosecure mode, or in a secure-only mode; if the handset is currently in the traditional mode, originating a secure call if the send/talk key is held for a time period greater than the predetermined amount of time, and originating a clear call if the send/talk key is held for a time period less than the predetermined amount of time; if the handset is currently in the autosecure mode, originating a secure call if the send/talk key is held for a time period less than the predetermined amount of time, sending a confirmation request to originate a clear call if the send/talk key is held for a time period greater than the predetermined amount of time, and originating a clear call if the confirmation request is confirmed; and if the handset is currently in the secure mode, originating a secure call.