Mobile Advice and Tips - Telstra Media

We have a range of Telstra community initiatives on how to get the most from your mobile and information about responsible phone use.

Drive Safe : Road rules for mobile phone users

You wouldn't read the paper while driving, so why drive while talking or texting on your handheld mobile? Not only is it illegal, it’s also extremely dangerous. Telstra's ongoing community awareness program (M8 it can W8) encourages you to use your mobile as safely as possible.

Mobiles and Your Health

Telstra relies on the expert advice of a number of national and international health authorities including the World Health Organization (WHO) for overall assessments of health and safety impacts.

The latest update from the WHO on mobile phones and health states "A large number of studies have been performed over the last two decades to assess whether mobile phones pose a potential health risk. To date, no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by mobile phone use." The WHO also notes that further study into the long term use of mobile phones and cancer, and the effect of mobile phone use on young people should be undertaken.

The WHO provides the following information on how to reduce mobile phone exposure:
1. Use ‘hands-free’ devices to keep mobile phones away from the head and body during phone calls.
2. Limit the number and length of calls.
3. Use the phone in areas of good reception, which reduces exposure as the phone will transmit at reduced power.

For more information visit our web site or contact our helpdesk at www.telstra.com/eme

In Case of Emergency (ICE)

Telstra is encouraging Australian mobile phone users to store the name and number of a family member or friend in their handsets to be contacted In Case of Emergency (ICE).

While we recommend people should not ever rely solely on a mobile during an emergency, including ICE in your mobile is an easy step that could help you when you need it most - in times of an accident or an emergency.

Lost and Stolen Mobiles

Over 200,000 much loved and needed mobiles are lost or stolen every year across Australia.

1. Never leave your mobile in your car.
2. Keep your mobile on you, never put it down in a public place or leave it unattended.
3. Make the most of your mobile’s security features. If you use PIN numbers, you are less likely to have to pay for calls a thief might try and make if your phone is stolen.
4. Notify your network carrier immediately if your mobile is lost or stolen.
5. Press *#06# to find out your IMEI number.

Mobile Phones and Hearing Aids

Today's range of mobile phones on Telstra's NextG network can be successfully used with hearing aids without experiencing interference or an audible buzz that some older mobiles used to cause.

Telstra recommends that people with hearing aids "try out" a number of mobile devices with their hearing aid to find the combination which works best for them. For any questions please visit your local Telstra Shop, call Telstra on 1800 220 034, or visit telstra.com.au/abouttelstra/advice/mobile/hearing/

Mobile Etiquette

Are you a menace on the mobile? You may not think so but here are some tips on using your mobile to be courteous of others:

1. Be aware of others.
2. Be photo sensitive.
3. Use Caller ID.
4. Mind your table manners.
5. Adjust your ringtones to your environment. no loud ring tones please.

Recycling Your Mobile

Do you love owning the latest mobile technology but you're not sure what to do with all the old equipment that is gathering dust? The answer is simple - recycle it. Telstra is an enthusiastic participant in MobileMuster the official recycling program for the mobile industry.

Fighting Spam

Unwanted text messages from companies spruiking their services or encouraging you to call an expensive telephone number are known as text message spam and can prove a real nuisance. Visit our website for tips to prevent spam.

Mobile Phone hoaxes

Telstra is always on the lookout for the latest mobile scams and hoaxes affecting our customers. Visit ourwebsite for advice on what to watch out for and what to ignore.

Find out more at www.telstra.com.au/abouttelstra/advice/mobile/