The 'secrets' of Freemasonry are concerned with the traditional methods by which Freemasons recognise each other. Although they have been well-publicised in books, on radio and television and in the press, Freemasons still prefer to regard their means of recognition as private.

It is not a secret society. All its members are free to acknowledge their membership and will do so in response to inquiries from respectable persons whose motives are not malicious. Its constitutions and rules are published and are available to the public. The books containing names of Lodges and members of the Order are private but are available to anyone with a genuine interest. There is no secret about any of its aims and principles. Like many other societies and organisations, it regards some of its internal affairs as private matters for its members, just as you would expect if you were a member of a church, a golf club, Rotary, a trade Union and so on.

Regular Freemasonry in England is practised under the United Grand Lodge of England. Freemasonry exists throughout the world under many independent Grand Lodges whose principles or standards are similar to those set by the United Grand Lodge of England.

There are, however, some self-styled Masonic bodies which have different aims and principles and thus do not meet the standards set down and expected by the United Grand Lodge of England. They are therefore not recognised as being Masonically regular and Masonic contact with them is strictly forbidden.