Joes Scanner

Hear the action, know the story!

Author: Joe

  • Joe’s Scanner: Faster, Smoother, More Useful

    Joe’s Scanner v1.5.4: Now Available and Better Than Ever

    I built Joe’s Scanner because I wanted a clean, modern app that makes Trunking Recorder servers easy to use on the devices people actually carry around. No bloated interfaces, no nonsense, just a fast way to listen to calls, review history, and pull the info you care about. Oh yeah, no ads either.

    Joe’s Scanner works as a front end for Trunking Recorder and can connect to any TR server over HTTP or HTTPS, including servers that require a username and password.

    What it does well

    Connect to your TR server in seconds

    • Works with HTTP or HTTPS
    • Supports servers with or without authentication
    • Designed to make switching servers straightforward, especially if you monitor more than one system

    Live listening that does not fight you

    • A clean “just works” listening experience with fast interaction
    • Built around real-world use: you are trying to listen, not babysit an interface

    History you can actually use

    The History tab is where the app starts paying off:

    • Quickly review past calls
    • Download calls when you need them (single call or grouped options when available)
    • Built for people who want to follow up on activity, not just hear it live once

    Transcriptions and smart detection (when your server has it)

    If your Trunking Recorder setup includes transcriptions, Joe’s Scanner can take advantage of that:

    • Address detection from transcription text
    • what3words detection when it shows up in the transcript
      This is especially handy when you are trying to figure out where something is happening without scrubbing audio repeatedly.

    Background play on iOS

    Yes, it does background audio on iOS. If you know, you know.

    Pricing and ads

    • The app is free.
    • No ads.
    • And no, I am not harvesting and selling data.

    I do offer my own hosted service for people who want a ready-to-go experience, but the app itself is built to support the wider TR community and works with your own server.

    Where to get it and how to get started

    1. Install Joe’s Scanner on your device
    2. Add your Trunking Recorder server URL (HTTP or HTTPS)
    3. If your server requires auth, enter your username and password
    4. Start listening, then use History to review and download calls

    Have your own Trunking Recorder installation? Want your server listed in the app?

    If you run a public-facing Trunking Recorder server and want it listed for easier discovery, reach out and I will tell you what I need to get it added. Or simply add it yourself!

  • Joe’s Scanner App v1.3.6 Update

    Android and Windows Testing has begun!

    Latest update

    The most recent app version includes fixes focused on improving reliability when selecting and playing calls from the queue. If you had an issue where tapping or clicking a call did not play correctly, this update is intended to address that behavior. I also added some error checking and other stuff in the background to improve stability and logging. If you still run into problems after updating, please let me know what device you are on and what happened.

    Over the past several weeks I have been building a dedicated Joe’s Scanner app for subscribers. The goal is simple: fast access to live activity, clean playback, and a smooth experience on both desktop and mobile.

    Right now, the app is available for testing on Android and Windows.

    What is working today

    Android and Windows builds are live

    • Android is distributed through the Google Play testing track.
    • Windows is available through the Microsoft Store.

    Subscriber login using your joesscanner.com credentials

    • The app uses the same email and password you use on joesscanner.com.
    • Once signed in, you can access the subscriber experience directly in the app.

    Core playback and queue experience

    • Live calls load into the queue and can be played from within the app.
    • Ongoing refinements are focused on stability and making interaction feel instant and reliable.

    How to install the app

    Android

    1. Accept the test agreement: https://play.google.com/apps/testing/app.joesscanner.com
      • From a pc only (Annoyingly, not my choice)
    2. Install the app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=app.joesscanner.com

    Windows

    iOS support

    iOS access is still provided through the existing, older app. The new iOS version is in active development, but it is not part of the current testing release yet.

    Upcoming updates

    Here are the next items I am actively working toward:

    • Open app from website with user prepopulated
    • Static filter
    • History tab
    • Archive tab
    • Feedback tab
    • Stats tab
    • Tone remover and alert

    Thank you

    If you are testing the app and run into issues, please reach out with what device you are on and what happened. Real world feedback is what helps me tighten this up quickly and keep improving it for everyone.

  • Joe’s Scanner App Update v1.2.1

    New Self-Installing Version Now Available!

    The latest version of the Joe’s Scanner app is live, and this release brings a major improvement: the app is now distributed as a self-installing Windows application. Installation and future updates are significantly easier, and you will no longer need to manually manage files.

    Now Available to All Joe’s Scanner Subscribers, 7 day free trial for all new subscribers.

    Access to the Windows app is now open to all active subscribers. If you have a current subscription on joesscanner.com, you can install and use the new version immediately.

    Download the latest Windows installer from Github


    Updated Login and Authentication

    The app now uses the same email and password that you use on joesscanner.com.
    The old access code system has been fully removed.

    If you need to change your account password, you can update it in your website profile settings before logging into the app.

    How to Configure the Updated App

    After installing:

    1. Open the app and go to Settings.
    2. In Connection, enter your email (username) and password for joesscanner.com.
    3. Click Save at the top.
    4. Then click Validate to confirm your subscription.
    5. Return to the main page and click Connect.
      The app will function exactly as before, with the added benefit of simplified authentication.

    Need Help?

    If you run into any issues, have questions, or want to provide feedback, feel free to reach out. Your input helps drive future enhancements to the platform.

  • JoesScanner App

    The JoesScanner App Is Almost Here

    A lot of you have been asking for this, and it’s finally time to share it: a dedicated JoesScanner application is on the way.

    This project has taken months of steady work, long nights, and a lot of learning. I hadn’t written real code in almost 20 years before starting this, so jumping back into modern development tools and frameworks was a challenge by itself. But piece by piece, the app came together, and it is now far enough along that I can give you a full preview.

    This will be the official desktop client for the JoesScanner service, built specifically for real time monitoring, clean audio playback, and user control over what you hear.

    First Look: Live Screenshots

    Main Screen

    Settings Screen

    These screenshots are taken directly from the current build of the app using live data from the JoesScanner system.

    Built For Real World Listening

    The entire design is centered around how scanning is actually used: long sessions, bursts of activity, catching up on backlogged calls, and filtering out noise when things get busy.

    A few highlights:

    Clean, Organized Call List

    The main screen provides:

    • Time of each call
    • Receiver, site, and talkgroup path
    • Transcriptions when available
    • Call length displayed on the right
    • Smooth scrolling of recent activity

    Current activity stays at the top where it belongs.

    Connection Controls Up Front

    At the top of the app you’ll see:

    • Connection status
    • Audio On or Off
    • Playback speed slider
    • Calls waiting counter
    • Jump to live, Disconnect, and Settings buttons

    Everything is visible at a glance.

    Smart Playback Speed

    One of the most useful features is the playback speed slider.

    It automatically activates only when there is a backlog of calls waiting to be played. When the system gets busy and calls pile up, you can increase speed to catch up. When you’re fully caught up, the slider disengages and audio plays at normal speed.

    This keeps listening natural during quiet periods and gives you the tools to keep up when traffic spikes.

    Powerful Filters

    The filter system lets you control traffic at multiple levels:

    Receiver > Site > Talkgroup

    For each item you can:

    • Mute: Temporarily hide audio from that source
    • Disable: Fully block new calls from that item
    • Clear: Remove filtering rules and let traffic flow again

    This makes it easy to trim out unwanted channels or narrow your focus during a specific event.

    Adjustable Call Queue

    In Settings you can choose how many recent calls to keep. If you prefer only a few calls in history, you can lower it. If you want a deeper backlog to review, you can increase it.

    The queue works together with the speed slider and calls-waiting counter so you always know how far behind real time you are.

    Simple, Useful Connection Settings

    The Connection panel includes:

    • A server field with a shortcut to automatically fill in the JoesScanner default
    • Your standard login (user/pass)
    • A Validate button to test credentials
    • A Show button to toggle password visibility

    Once saved, everything persists automatically.

    Logging Tools Included

    There’s a built-in log viewer for troubleshooting. You can:

    • Review connection information
    • Check for warnings or temporary network issues
    • Close the log when done
    • Download the log as a text file with a timestamped filename

    This is especially useful during setup or if anything unexpected happens.

    Months Of Work Behind The Scenes

    This app represents a major effort over several months. Relearning development after 20 years, catching up with modern .NET, MAUI, and asynchronous audio streaming, and then turning all that into a polished user experience has been a huge undertaking.

    But the end result is taking shape, and I’m excited to share it with you.

    Coming Soon

    The app is nearly ready for public release. The last step is fine tuning, packaging, and preparing installation instructions.

    Another post will go up once everything is ready to download.

    Thank you all for supporting JoesScanner and being part of this community. This app is built for you, and I’m looking forward to getting it into your hands.

    Donate to continue supporting growth of this app and the overall service.

    Thanks
    -Joe
    Hear the Action, Know the Story!

  • JAAS now includes voice transcription

    JAAS now creates a text transcript for most recorded calls. You can read dialog and you can search it by keyword across the full archive.

    What you see

    • A Notes/text column in archive tables with a live snippet from each call
    • Standard columns stay the same: Time, Date, Target, Target Label, Source
    • The system time and total entry count show at the top as before
    • Click a row to open the call and view the full transcript or click show all rows to view all

    How it works

    • Transcripts attach to calls after recording finishes
    • Global search now returns matches from transcripts and metadata
    • Copy any line from Notes/text for reports or follow up
    • Confidence scores show on the call view so you can judge quality

    Coverage and quality

    Transcription runs on the server. It works best on clear P25 audio. Encrypted or garbled audio is skipped. Expect some word errors. We improve the models as we gather feedback.

    At launch this is enabled for Treasure Valley and Magic Valley. Older calls are being backfilled in order of demand.

    Privacy and retention

    Only traffic we already archive is transcribed. Private calls and encrypted talkgroups remain excluded. Transcripts follow the same retention policy as audio. If your agency needs an exclusion, contact support with details.

    Availability and price

    Included for active JAAS subscribers at no extra cost during the beta period. If pricing changes later, you will see clear notice before any billing change. Current pricing is on the pricing page.

    Feedback

    Tell me where it helps and where it stumbles. Note the talkgroup and time. Use the support form so I can track requests.

    Links

    Thank you for supporting Joe’s Scanner and JAAS.

    Stay safe and stay informed,
    –Citizen Joe

  • Joes Store is now open

    Big News: Joe’s Scanner Now Has an Official Website and Store!

    After much hard work, I’m excited to announce that Joes Scanner finally has an official website and store at JoesScanner.com!

    I’d love for you to look around, explore the new features, and let me know what you think. Your feedback is important, so feel free to share your thoughts via the feedback form on the Support page.

    Important Update on Subscriptions: All new subscriptions will now be handled directly through the website. Don’t worry if you’re already subscribed via BuyMeACoffee.com—your subscription will still be honored, and it will continue to renew as usual.

    However, as part of this transition (and due to some changes in available options), we’re updating the subscription structure:

    • There will now be one subscription plan that covers all systems.
    • The standard fee for access will be $6 a month.
    • There are also options to pay more if you’d like to help the channel grow or show extra support and appreciation!

    Why Switch to the Website for Your Subscription? If you’re currently signed up on BuyMeACoffee.com, you can stick with that platform, but there are some benefits to switching over to the new website:

    • I get a bit more support from subscriptions via JoesScanner.com.
    • I can now manage subscriptions, offer discounts, and even allow affiliate signups through the website—features not available on BuyMeACoffee.
    • For help canceling your subscription on BuyMeACoffee please go here

    Please note, no new signups will be allowed on BuyMeACoffee.com, so if you’re considering subscribing, head over to JoesScanner.com/shop/!

    If you need any assistance signing up for a subscription or navigating the new site, check out the Support section or visit the Store for more information.

    Thank you so much for your continued support—it means the world to me and helps the channel grow!

    Stay safe and stay informed,
    –Citizen Joe

  • New domain: JoesScanner.com

    Big News: We’re Moving to a New Domain!

    I am happy to announce that Citizen Joe is officially changing its domain name! To better align with the focus of our community and services, we’re moving from meaninglessurl.com to JoesScanner.com.

    Starting now, all updates, news, and services will be hosted on the new domain. Make sure to bookmark JoesScanner.com and stay tuned for exciting developments!

    If you’re using the scanner via phone app or webpage, please update your connection URL from meaninglessurl.com to JoesScanner.com. The old link and all services using the old link, will continue to work until December 31st, after which it will be deactivated. So, don’t forget to update the phone app settings and web app bookmarks before then.

    Joes new email is [email protected]

    Scanner url is: https://scanner.joesscanner.com
    Your access code for the scanner is the same.

    Archive url is https://archive.joesscanner.com
    Your password for the archive server is the same.

    Thank you for your continued support!

    Stay safe and stay informed,
    –Citizen Joe

  • P-25 Radio encryption in Idaho

    In Idaho, law enforcement agencies, like many others across the U.S., have the option to encrypt their radio communications. However, there are no specific statewide rules that mandate whether agencies must encrypt or keep their channels open to the public. Instead, encryption policies are typically determined by the individual law enforcement agencies at the local or regional level.

    Here are some general guidelines that apply to law enforcement radio communications in Idaho:

    1. Agency Discretion: Encryption decisions are usually made at the department or municipal level, meaning that city police, county sheriffs, and other law enforcement bodies can choose to encrypt their channels for safety, security, or operational reasons.
    2. Public Safety and Operational Security: The main reasons for encryption include protecting sensitive information during active incidents, ensuring officer safety, and preventing criminals from monitoring police communications. Encryption is especially common during high-risk situations or when personal information is transmitted.
    3. Media Access: In some areas, news organizations may be granted access to encrypted communications through special agreements or credentials, though this is not guaranteed.
    4. Public Access to Unencrypted Channels: Although certain channels might be encrypted, many law enforcement agencies still leave some channels, such as routine dispatch or secondary channels, unencrypted. This maintains a level of transparency while protecting more sensitive operations.
    5. Legal Precedents and Challenges: There is no federal law that prohibits law enforcement agencies from encrypting their communications, and some states have passed laws encouraging transparency by limiting the use of encryption. Idaho, however, has not passed such laws, so the decision remains within the control of individual agencies.

    In Idaho specifically, agencies like the Idaho State Police and local county sheriffs may have a mix of encrypted and open channels. Those running monitoring services (like Joe’s Scanner) often focus on unencrypted channels that remain publicly accessible.

    I hope this information is helpful in understanding P-25 communications in Idaho.

    Stay safe and stay informed,
    –Citizen Joe

  • P-25 radio encryption

    Understanding P25 Radio Encryption and Its Usage

    I’ve received quite a few emails and messages recently asking about P25 encryption, its security, and related concerns. To address these questions, I’ve put together this brief guide to share some key information with all of you.

    P25 (Project 25) radio systems are used by public safety organizations, government agencies, and other entities to ensure secure and reliable communication. One of the key features of P25 systems is encryption, which helps protect sensitive communications from unauthorized access.

    What is P25 Encryption?

    Encryption in P25 radio systems scrambles voice or data transmissions, making it unreadable to anyone without the correct encryption key. This is crucial for police, fire departments, and emergency services, where maintaining confidentiality is paramount for safety and security.

    How is P25 Communication Used?

    P25 systems allow seamless communication across different agencies and jurisdictions, especially during emergencies. Here are a few common uses:

    • Law Enforcement: Protecting officer communications regarding operations, sensitive information, or ongoing investigations.
    • Fire and Rescue: Ensuring coordinated efforts in life-and-death situations without interference from unauthorized listeners.
    • EMS (Emergency Medical Services): Securely transmitting patient data and emergency response coordination.
    • Federal Agencies: Homeland security, military, and other federal operations rely on secure channels for tactical operations and national security.

    How Secure is P25 Encryption?

    P25 encryption is designed to be highly secure, using advanced encryption standards like AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) with 256-bit keys. Cracking this encryption is extremely difficult due to the complexity of modern encryption algorithms, making it almost impossible for unauthorized parties to intercept or decrypt the communication without the proper keys.

    However, no encryption is 100% unbreakable. The likelihood of P25 encryption being hacked is very low, but it can happen under certain conditions, such as poor key management, insider threats, or sophisticated adversaries. For general use, though, P25 encryption is considered one of the most secure communication methods available.

    Penalties for Cracking P25 Encryption

    Attempting to crack or intercept P25 encrypted communication is illegal under the Federal Wiretap Act and other laws governing unauthorized access to electronic communications. Penalties can include:

    • Fines: Hefty fines that can range into the thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
    • Prison time: Offenders can face up to 5 years in federal prison for unauthorized decryption of protected communication.
    • Civil lawsuits: Victims of illegal decryption or interception can also pursue civil suits, leading to additional financial penalties.

    It’s important to remember that attempting to bypass P25 encryption not only violates the law but also undermines the safety and effectiveness of our public safety infrastructure.

    For more information or questions about P25 encryption, feel free to reach out to me, I prioritize understanding the laws and technicalities behind radio systems!

    Stay safe and stay informed,
    –Citizen Joe

  • Joes Scanner

    Announcement: Updates to Joe’s Scanner Service

    Hi everyone,

    I’m excited to share that I’ve added Twin Falls to the systems I monitor! As some of you may already know, Boise PD has encrypted all of their channels. To adapt to these changes, I’ve made updates to Joe’s Scanner pricing structure.

    New Membership Options: You can now choose between monitoring a single system or multiple systems. When you visit Buy Me a Coffee, you’ll find two options: Single Site or Multiple Site access levels.

    • If you sign up for Single Site access, you’ll receive an email asking if you’d prefer access to Treasure Valley or Twin Falls. After you reply, I’ll set up your account as requested.
    • If you don’t see the email or sign up during the evening, feel free to email me at [email protected] to speed things up. Please make sure to specify which system you’d like access to.

    For Current Members: Current members will automatically default to the Multiple Site access level, as it matches your current subscription. If you’d prefer to downgrade to Single Site access, you’ll need to cancel your existing membership and sign up again—I don’t have the ability to transfer accounts between tiers. However, this is optional! You can simply turn off Twin Falls using the TG button if you’d prefer not to hear it. But of course, I’d appreciate the extra support if you stick with the multiple site option. If you do downgrade, your passcode will remain the same and will require no further configuration on your part.

    Feedback & Contact: I’m always open to your feedback! You can comment on this post, reach out on my YouTube channel, or send an email to [email protected] for any questions or discussions.

    Thank you for your continued support!