Covert Communication Methods in the Cold War: The Laced Shoelaces Technique

During the Cold War, intelligence agencies, particularly the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), employed a variety of covert methods for communication and intelligence gathering. One such method was the lacing of shoelaces, a practice that has been both fascinating and enigmatic. This article delves into the history and potential uses of laced shoelaces as a form of covert communication.

Overview of Covert Communication Techniques

The use of laced shoelaces in the Cold War era was part of a broader range of covert communication methods. These techniques were designed to keep messages and instructions discreet, minimizing the risk of detection by enemy agents and other surveillance methods. Similar techniques included the use of hidden signals, codes, and indirect communication methods.

The Specific Technique: Laced Shoelaces

Agents were trained to lace their shoes in specific patterns to convey messages. For instance, certain patterns could signal specific operations, locations, or times. This method was particularly helpful in situations where agents needed to remain inconspicuous and avoid drawing attention to their activities. The technique required a level of creativity and resourcefulness that was often essential in the tense and secretive environment of espionage.

Drawbacks and Practicality

Despite its ingenuity, the laced shoelace technique had several practical limitations. For one, most people did not change the lacing of their shoes frequently. The lacing pattern tended to remain consistent, as individuals usually laced their shoes in a repetitive and recognizable manner. Thus, a random or unusual pattern would immediately stand out and arouse suspicion.

Another drawback was the logistics of selecting the right types of shoes. Most dress shoes have limited options for lacing patterns (usually 3-4 pairs of holes). Wearing shoes with unconventional lacing patterns could make an agent stand out, potentially compromising their cover and causing unwanted attention. Hence, choosing the right pair of shoes and being able to maintain a consistent yet deceiving lacing pattern was crucial for success.

Government Aids: Operational Applications of the Art of Deception

During the 1950s, a unique training program known as MK-ULTRA was established by the CIA to provide agents with specialized skills in deception and covert communications. As part of this program, magician John Mulholland was hired to train field officers in the techniques of his trade. Two critical training manuals were developed:

The manuals covered a wide range of covert communication techniques, including lacing patterns, miniature signaling devices, and other methods. Notably, the manual titled Recognition Signals discussed the specific use of lacing patterns to convey messages.

Despite their significance in training, the manuals were eventually destroyed in 1973 per orders from the then-DCI Richard Helms. In 2007, Robert Wallace, a former director of the CIA’s Office of Technical Services, discovered references to these manuals and managed to track down poor-quality copies of each.

Conclusion

The practice of using laced shoelaces as a form of covert communication during the Cold War remains a fascinating topic in the realm of espionage. While it showcased the creativity and ingenuity of intelligence operatives, it also illustrates the practical challenges such methods faced. This technique, along with other covert communication methods, offers a unique glimpse into the strategic thinking and operational complexity of the era.