A method and device for combating cross-correlation false alarms by introducing code diversity in the correlation process in which the search code may be diversified by the use of code staggering and/or code scrambling. The energy levels of the signals before and after the search code have been diversified may be evaluated to detect a false alarm. In addition, a set of parameterized analytical models may be used to estimate the rate of false alarms from cross-correlation in wireless networks in order to guide development and design of wireless transceivers.