# Users of covert 'safe phones' urged to power down during Australia's emergency alert test

Australian authorities are advising individuals who use hidden or secure "safe phones" to switch them off during a nationwide test of the AusAlert emergency warning system. The test broadcasts messages to all mobile devices, potentially exposing the location or existence of these covert phones. This matters because it highlights privacy and security risks for people using such devices in sensitive situations.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jul/22/people-with-secret-safe-phones-advised-to-turn-off-devices-during-national-test-of-ausalert-emergency-warning) — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 05:54:00 GMT
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jul/22/ausalert-test-sound-national-alert-emergency-warning-system-date) — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:00:20 GMT