Open Source Homeland

Great site for pulling together knowledge about unknown callers: Phone Number Comments

I’m not sure what it is, but there’s obviously something very fishy about what’s going on with this story. The entire story is written in the “my story went to press before I could get confirmation on a whole bunch of facts that I am trying to telegraph to you, but failing, because it’s complicated and I can’t get enough of the context out of my sources” style.

Congress Probes Emergency Network – TIME
The winning D block bidder, in exchange for use of the public safety spectrum, would build the network and make a profit by selling access to wireless service providers. But about two weeks before the auction was to begin, Frontline announced it was “closed for business.” No other bidders emerged to pledge the minimum $1.33 billion needed to win the public safety block.

The FCC has opened an investigation into a claim that OBriens involvement as adviser for the public safety trust discouraged bidders from participating. OBrien has denied the allegations. Frontline says it did not bid because it couldnt raise the money. If the FCC wants to make the public-private emergency network plan work, it will have to devise a new plan that would be attractive to a deep-pocketed investor.

This is a huge step forward in making common, accepted communications tactics a central part of emergency communications.

Cell Phone Alerts Coming Soon — chicagotribune.com
There would be three different types of messages, according to the rules.

The first would be a national alert from the president, likely involving a terrorist attack or natural disaster. The second would involve “imminent threats,” which could include natural disasters like hurricanes or tornadoes or even university shootings. The third would be reserved for child abduction emergencies, or so-called Amber Alerts.