A nationwide emergency alert test in Australia, scheduled for July 27, carries the potential to expose secret secondary mobile phones, according to dating and relationship experts. The alert, designed to warn citizens of natural disasters like bushfires and floods, will emit a 10-second siren that cannot be silenced unless the phone is turned off or in airplane mode, bypassing 'do not disturb' settings.
Jana Hocking, a dating and relationship columnist for the Daily Mail, suggested the test could unintentionally reveal illicit relationships. "If I were sitting at home and suddenly heard a phone I didn't recognise blaring somewhere in the house, I would be locating that sound with the speed and precision of a sniffer dog," Hocking stated, anticipating many "spectacular excuses".
Susie Kim, a dating and relationship coach, expressed skepticism about the widespread discovery of hidden phones, suggesting it is an "old school" method of infidelity and more likely to be used by older individuals. A 2017 survey by Ashley Madison indicated that only 11% of those who cheated used a secret phone.
Kim advised that if such a discovery occurs, it signals a need to reassess the relationship's foundation and communication. "It's hard to not rush to conclusions, but it's pretty significant to hide something like a whole phone," she said.
The alert system, set to officially roll out in October, aims to fill gaps identified in state-based emergency alerts following the 2020 Royal Commission into Natural Disaster Management. Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain confirmed the test will proceed despite concerns raised by states and territories regarding its implementation and how it will protect vulnerable populations and non-English speaking households.
Beyond potential relationship revelations, concerns have been raised for vulnerable Australians, including domestic violence survivors who may rely on hidden devices for safety. Experts recommend these individuals switch their phones to airplane mode or turn them off an hour before the test and keep them in that state for up to 24 hours. Rachael Burgin, a senior lecturer in criminal justice, highlighted the importance of connectivity for victim survivors and the potential risks associated with being unable to access their phones for communication or emergency services.
Minister McBain noted that the siren's sound could transcend language barriers, with people universally understanding it signifies an emergency. While the AusAlert system is designed to be a national standalone network, some states and territories will continue to operate their own alert systems concurrently with the new national rollout.