Abstract: Electronic devices which can execute code are increasingly ubiquitous. These devices execute code autonomously, in response to user controls at the device, or in response to code or information received when the device communicates with other entities. Oftentimes, such devices remain in a passive mode, open to receipt of electromagnetic, acoustic or other signals but not actively transmitting signals. Several situations including but not limited to broadcast of urgent and time critical information, activation of privacy controls on a device, or activation of affinity or other marketing software make it desirable to have such devices execute code differently and in some circumstances behave differently upon receipt of a beacon signal. This disclosure describes such processes.