Traditionally, in times of unrest and disaster radio amateurs were the last to stay in touch and the first to come back in contact.
Yes, they're severely regulated and there are governmental registries of the equipment they have. But I'd still put good money on HAMs being the last links to an area engulfed in unrest or disaster.
Secondly, there is zero privacy in amateur radio communications. Encryption of any form is expressly forbidden.
Thirdly, commercial use of the radio amateur service is severely restricted as well.