My thoughts on this: https://trenddigest.com/au/trends/technology/kmart-and-target-recall-anko-walkie-talkies-over-radio-frequency-breach-2026-05-18
Radio Scanning, Amateur Radio and Responsible Frequency Use
Every now and then, a story comes along that reminds us why radio frequencies aren't simply a collection of numbers that you can pick at random and start transmitting on.
A recent nationwide recall of the Anko Long Range Walkie Talkies, sold through Kmart and Target in Australia, is a particularly good example of what can go wrong when radio equipment operates outside its authorised frequency allocations.
According to the recall notice published on 18 May 2026, the devices were found to operate on unauthorised radio frequencies, creating the potential to interfere with licensed radio communications. Customers were instructed to stop using the devices immediately and return them for a full refund.
For the average consumer, this might seem like a relatively minor product recall. For anyone involved in radio communications, scanning or amateur radio, however, it highlights a much bigger issue.
You cannot simply pick a frequency because it is available on your radio.
One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding two-way radios is that if a frequency can be entered into a radio, it must be suitable to use. That is simply not true.
A radio might allow you to program virtually any frequency within its technical operating range. That doesn't mean you are authorised to transmit on it.
Radio spectrum in Australia is managed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). Different frequency bands are allocated for different purposes, including:
Emergency services.
Aviation communications.
Marine communications.
Amateur radio.
Commercial and industrial communications.
Public safety networks.
Personal and recreational radio services.
Government and other licensed services.
These allocations exist for a reason. They allow different services to operate without unnecessarily interfering with each other.
When someone purchases an inexpensive walkie talkie, programs a random frequency and starts transmitting, they could potentially interfere with an existing service.
And that service might be considerably more important than a couple of kids chatting between the backyard and the bedroom.
The consequences can be more serious than you think
Imagine a cheap walkie talkie transmitting on a frequency allocated to another service.
Depending on the frequency, location, equipment and circumstances, the interference could affect:
An aircraft communication.
A marine radio transmission.
A commercial radio network.
An industrial control or operational communication system.
An emergency services communication channel.
It is important not to assume that interference will necessarily happen simply because a device is operating incorrectly. However, the potential consequences are precisely why radio equipment and frequency use are regulated.
Emergency services and other critical communications rely on radio networks being available and reliable. Nobody wants an unauthorised transmission interfering with an important communication at the wrong moment.
Even if the person transmitting has absolutely no idea what they are doing, the potential impact doesn't disappear.
Cheap radios and online marketplaces
The Anko recall also raises questions about the number of inexpensive radio devices being sold to consumers.
Walkie talkies are popular for:
Children playing around the house.
Camping and outdoor activities.
Family road trips.
Sporting activities.
General recreational use.
There is nothing wrong with wanting an inexpensive way to communicate. Imported radios, particularly inexpensive devices purchased through online marketplaces, deserve some additional scrutiny. Before purchasing a radio, consumers should consider whether it is compliant with Australian requirements and whether it is actually authorised for the intended use.
A product being advertised as a long-range walkie talkie doesn't automatically mean it is legal to operate in Australia.
A little knowledge goes a long way
For anyone purchasing or using two-way radios, there are a few simple things worth remembering.
1. Don't randomly select frequencies.
A frequency being available in your radio's programming menu doesn't mean it is available for your use.
2. Understand the service you're using.
Know which frequency band your radio operates on and what the relevant Australian regulations permit.
3. Buy compliant equipment.
Check that the radio meets Australian regulatory requirements and is suitable for the intended service.
4. Don't assume that low power means no harm.
Even a relatively low-powered transmitter can cause interference, particularly when transmitting close to another receiver or communications site.
5. If you're unsure, don't transmit.
Take the time to research the frequency allocation and applicable licensing conditions before pressing the PTT button.
Resources worth bookmarking
For Australian radio users, there are some useful official resources:
Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA): https://www.acma.gov.au/
Australian Product Recalls: https://www.productsafety.gov.au/recalls
These are good starting points for understanding frequency allocations, radio licensing and product compliance.
Final thoughts
The Anko walkie talkie recall is a good reminder that radio spectrum is a shared and regulated resource.
I have been interested in radio communications since the 1990s, and one of the things I enjoy most about the hobby is discovering what is happening across the radio spectrum.
From amateur radio and aviation through to marine, rail, commercial and emergency services communications, there is an enormous amount to discover.
But there is also a responsibility that comes with understanding and using radio equipment.
A frequency isn't just a number you can randomly select because it sounds interesting or happens to be quiet.
There could be an entire communications service operating there, with people relying on it every day.
Listen, learn, research and understand the frequencies you're working with, And if you don't know whether you're authorised to transmit, leave the PTT button alone.
