If you’re in Australia, your phone most likely just went off.
It was the emergency system AusAlert, which sent out a ‘critical’ level alert as a test.
The Federal Government issued the test alert to every mobile and some smart watches and tablets in the country.
Devices were notified regardless of whether they were set to silent or ‘do not disturb’.
So, why did that just happen?
AusAlert
In February, the Federal Government announced AusAlert, designed to send targeted warnings during emergencies such as natural disasters, security threats, health crises and biosecurity incidents.
It uses cell-broadcast technology to alert compatible devices in areas as precise as 160 metres, without collecting phone numbers or location data.
Unlike SMS, the alerts can still be sent when mobile networks are congested, making AusAlert faster and more reliable than the existing system.
The system has two levels: Critical, the highest warning level, meaning you may be in danger and should act immediately – devices will vibrate and sound a siren for about 10 seconds, even on silent or ‘do not disturb’, and users cannot opt out. Priority signals a high threat level and changing conditions, where recipients should ‘watch and act’ – devices may vibrate and sound for about 10 seconds unless silenced or on ‘do not disturb’, and users can opt out in their settings.
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Test
A test alert was sent to every compatible mobile device nationwide on Monday, ahead of the full AusAlert launch in October.
The alert clearly stated it was a test, and reached devices simultaneously at 2pm AEST, 1.30pm ACST and 12pm AWST.
Local trials were held last month in nine communities, including Geelong, Launceston, and Port Lincoln.
Christmas Island also received the alert at 11am CXT.
Safety
In the lead-up to the test, domestic violence advocates warned the test could expose hidden or “safe” phones used by people experiencing abuse.
The Centre for Women’s Safety and Wellbeing recommended turning these devices off or switching them to aeroplane mode one hour before the test, and leaving them that way for 24 hours afterwards.
The advice is also published on the AusAlert website.
If this raises concerns for you: 1800RESPECT is available on 1800 737 732 (call), 0458 737 732 (text), or via video at 1800RESPECT.org.au.
