Because shortwave, being antique and forgotten, is orthogonal to the predominate modes of communication in the 21st century?
But that doesn't make sense, either. I mean, if you are going to use shortwave covertly, why call attention to yourself by getting a license? You don't need no stinkin' license to use shortwave covertly!
Good analysis, cynwoody.
Why the sudden interest in the hobby of amateur radio?
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Because your transmissions won’t get swept up in the vast NSA data-capture net. Just have a set of code words so if anyone listens in the discussion sounds like nothing suspicious.