OPSEC is a concern for any prepper both now when preparing for a SHTF event and during such an emergency. It is highly unlikely that other general HAM operators will be able to discover your location as you communicate. But, law enforcement or governmental agencies will be able to locate all legal operators - those with a license on file. HAM radio might seem like a very technical, overly complicated, and pricey “hobby” but it really is not. Part of the reason for such a common misconception is that not a lot has been done within the HAM community itself to promote itself in an easy to understand way. Shortwave radio has been around now for more than a century. There are over 750,000 licensed operators in America alone. The flexibility and sense of community that is formed among HAM operators is one of the reasons why it is so attractive to preppers from around the world.