Map Cipher

For centuries, maps have been used by people for centuries to aid in navigation. However, some maps you may be able to identify a pattern. Map ciphers are maps that look normal but have a secret cipher hidden within.

To create your own map cipher you need to create a set of symbols that stand for each letter in the alphabet. The example below uses tree branches and a matrix to create an alphabet of trees. The position of each letter in the matrix determines the number of branches on the left or right side of the tree. Look at letter "C", located in the matrix position of (1, 3). Place on branch on the left, 3 on the right.

The use of less conspicuous symbols (objects) would conceal the presence of a secret message in the map. The key to any good cipher is to make it look normal. Another thing that may be considered to secure a map cipher is randomly place letters into the matrix. Perhaps put letter "A" in (1, 4) and put letter "B" in (3, 2), etc. Maybe some extra matrix locations can be inserted with punctuation marks or distraction letters to improve security.