Method of decoding data making it possible to correct certain errors, e.g. in synchronization and transmission. The method relates to decoding data transmitted in groups of blocks. Each block has n1+n2 bits, where n1 is the length of a corresponding information word. The information word is extended to an error protection block of n1+n2 bits by application of a linear error protection code and an off-set which indicates the position of the block within a group. Synchronization is established by incremental generation of a position-indicating syndrome from the block. If error correction is found to be necessary, it begins after synchronization. Synchronization is restarted if too many errors occur. A device for implementing the method includes a radio receiver (21), a microprocessor (22) for its control and a universal decoder (11) consisting on the one hand of a demodulation (13) and clock regeneration (12) component, the input of which is connected to the multiplex output of the radio receiver (21) and, on the other, of a broadcast data processing microprocessor (14), the output of which is connected to said microprocessor (22) for controlling the radio receiver.