The criminal who famously used cryptic messages to taunt authorities and the public was none other than the Zodiac Killer, one of the most infamous unidentified serial killers in American history. Active primarily in Northern California during the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Zodiac Killer is known not only for his brutal crimes but also for the series of cryptic letters and ciphers he sent to newspapers and law enforcement. These messages, often filled with riddles, symbols, and threats, were intended to mock investigators and assert his superiority. Despite decades of investigation, the Zodiac Killer’s identity remains a mystery, and his cryptic messages continue to fascinate and frustrate codebreakers and true crime enthusiasts alike.
The Zodiac Killer is believed to have committed at least five murders, though he claimed responsibility for as many as 37 in his letters. His known attacks occurred between December 1968 and October 1969, targeting young couples and individuals in secluded areas. The killer’s modus operandi involved ambushing his victims, often using a gun or knife, and then fleeing the scene.
What set the Zodiac Killer apart from other criminals of his time was his brazen communication with the media and law enforcement. After each attack, he sent letters to local newspapers, such as the San Francisco Chronicle, Vallejo Times-Herald, and San Francisco Examiner. These letters included details about the crimes that only the killer could have known, as well as cryptic messages and ciphers. The Zodiac Killer’s letters were often signed with a crosshair-like symbol, which he claimed represented his identity.
The Zodiac Killer’s cryptic messages are among the most famous aspects of his case. He sent a total of four confirmed ciphers, often referred to as the Zodiac Ciphers, to newspapers and law enforcement. These ciphers were a mix of symbols, letters, and numbers, and the killer claimed that solving them would reveal his identity.
The 408 Cipher: The first cipher, sent in three parts to three different newspapers in August 1969, was solved within a week by a schoolteacher and his wife. The message contained a chilling declaration: "I like killing people because it is so much fun." However, it did not reveal the killer’s identity.
The 340 Cipher: Sent in November 1969, this cipher remained unsolved for over 50 years until a team of amateur codebreakers cracked it in December 2020. The decrypted message read, "I hope you are having lots of fun in trying to catch me," further taunting authorities.
The 13-Symbol Cipher: This short cipher, sent in April 1970, has never been solved. It consists of 13 symbols and remains one of the most enduring mysteries of the case.
The My Name Is Cipher: Sent in June 1970, this cipher was intended to reveal the killer’s name. Despite numerous attempts, it has never been decrypted.
In addition to the ciphers, the Zodiac Killer’s letters were filled with cryptic phrases, threats, and boasts. He often referred to himself as "the Zodiac" and claimed that his victims would become his slaves in the afterlife. His letters were written in a distinctive style, blending arrogance, dark humor, and a desire for notoriety.
The Zodiac Killer’s motives remain unclear, but his letters suggest a desire for fame and control. By sending cryptic messages and ciphers, he ensured that his crimes would remain in the public eye and that law enforcement would be constantly challenged. The killer seemed to revel in the fear and confusion he caused, often mocking investigators and threatening further violence.
Some experts believe that the Zodiac Killer may have been motivated by a need for recognition and a twisted sense of superiority. His cryptic messages were a way to assert his intelligence and outwit authorities, while his choice of victims—young couples and individuals—may have reflected a desire to disrupt the lives of ordinary people.
Despite an extensive investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies, the Zodiac Killer was never identified or apprehended. Over the years, numerous suspects have been proposed, including Arthur Leigh Allen, a convicted child molester who was investigated by police but never charged. Other suspects include Ted Kaczynski (the Unabomber) and various individuals with connections to the areas where the crimes occurred.
Advances in forensic science and DNA analysis have reignited interest in the case, but so far, no definitive evidence has emerged to identify the killer. The Zodiac Killer’s cryptic messages and ciphers remain a central focus of the investigation, with amateur sleuths and professional codebreakers continuing to analyze them for clues.
The Zodiac Killer’s crimes and cryptic messages have left an indelible mark on popular culture. His case has inspired countless books, documentaries, and films, including the 2007 movie Zodiac, directed by David Fincher. The killer’s ability to evade capture and his use of cryptic communication have made him a symbol of the elusive and enigmatic criminal.
The Zodiac Killer’s ciphers, in particular, have become a subject of fascination for cryptographers and puzzle enthusiasts. The recent decryption of the 340 Cipher in 2020 demonstrated that even after decades, the killer’s messages still hold the power to captivate and challenge.
The Zodiac Killer remains one of the most mysterious and terrifying figures in criminal history. His use of cryptic messages and ciphers not only taunted authorities but also ensured his place in the annals of true crime. While the killer’s identity may never be known, his cryptic communications continue to intrigue and inspire those who seek to unravel the mysteries of the past. The question "Who was the criminal who had cryptic messages?" will likely remain unanswered, but the legacy of the Zodiac Killer endures as a chilling reminder of the power of secrecy and the human fascination with the unknown.