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A prefix code was a six digit number programmed into a Starfleet starship's computer that allows someone to take control of a specific starship. These codes are intended as anti-hijacking measures, but have been used for negative purposes. (TNG novel: The Captains' Honor, TOS movie: Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan)

History and specifics

In 2285, the crew of the USS Enterprise accessed the prefix code of the USS Reliant in order to stop Khan Noonien Singh from using the Reliant against Enterprise. (TOS movie: Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan)

In 2364, Captain Lucius Sejanus requested that Ensign Jenny de Luz get the USS Enterprise-D's prefix code, but de Luz didn't get it for him. (TNG novel: The Captains' Honor)

In 2365, Captain Jean-Luc Picard obtains the USS Lantree's prefix code after the ship's crew does not respond. It is then revealed that the crew died from an accelerated aging. (TNG episode: "Unnatural Selection")

In 2367, Captain Jean-Luc Picard gave the Cardassians the USS Phoenix's prefix code when it was attacking Cardassian starships. (TNG episode: "The Wounded")

In 2385 of the First Splinter timeline, the Warden of a prison asteroid containing Julian Bashir used the prefix code of the USS Lionheart to stop its approach to the prison. (TNG - The Fall novel: The Poisoned Chalice)

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