What is the role of a duress code?

• A. They provide a means to indicate duress via a pre-designated word
• B. They provide a means to access vaults
• C. They replace authentication codes
• D. They log a false alarm

Answer: (A)

A duress code is a special signal used to secretly summon help when someone is being forced to perform an action. When the designated signal (often a pre‑arranged word or code) is entered, the system continues to process the entry as normal, but it also sends a discreet alert to security or the monitoring station. This allows responders to know someone needs assistance without the perpetrator realizing a distress signal has been sent. It’s not about granting extra access to vaults, it doesn’t replace regular authentication codes, and it isn’t meant to log a false alarm—it's a real, silent alert for help.