duress code
Forced compliance indicator
A duress code is a secret signal—typically a word, phrase, or sequence—that indicates the person using it is being coerced or is in danger.
Banks use duress codes so tellers can silently alert security during robberies.
Home alarm systems may have a duress PIN that appears to disarm the system while notifying authorities: She entered the duress code and waited for police to arrive.
- distressSevere anxiety or suffering
- cry for helpUrgent request for assistance
- covertIntentionally concealed
- signalMessage-conveying cue
- panicUncontrollable sudden fear
silent alarm · hostage · hostage situation · kidnapping · silent · trigger · emergency · password · security · threat · forced · captive · robbery · home invasion · bank · teller · bank robbery · ATM