Some lovers have found that the cellphone is the consummate cheating tool.

Yes, I can hear the affirmatives all over the world.

The device is discreet. It allows individuals to say they are somewhere when they are not, carry on intimate conversations anywhere individuals find it convenient, and features like text messaging and BlackBerry messenger on BlackBerry handsets allow for discreet conversations when others are around.

For Troywho has been with his girlfriend less than a year, his cellphone is an integral tool in his affairs.

Seven other relations

"The BlackBerry messenger is a very dangerous tool, a lot can be said discreetly," said Troy. He, therefore, uses this feature frequently, getting messages late at night.

"I have a lot of friends with benefits," he said, admitting to carrying on seven relationships outside his main one.

Aside from the convenience of the device, Troy said messaging allows him to create an emotional distance. "The phone takes off the connectivity," he said.

He believes his girlfriend suspects that he is cheating.

"She has an idea but she hasn't come right out and said it," he explained. The fact that they don't live together also gives him the space to get away with more.

With the cellphone the reverse is also true. The device can act as a record of these indiscretions Keishahas been a victim of this scenario. That's how she discovered her boyfriend was cheating on her. It was a Sunday evening she cannot forget. Keisha, her boyfriend and his 9-year-old niece were waiting in his car. The young girl picked up her uncle's phone and read aloud the message. "I love you, round two," she read aloud.

Denied

"I'll never forget that," Keisha said, explaining that she waited until they got home to discuss it. He denied that he was having an affair.

One day she waited until he was out and searched his phone. She discovered the numerous text messages which pointed to him cheating.

"It was the first and the last time I did that," Keisha said. They broke up shortly after and got back together months later. The relationship lasted for two and a half years after that.

"He wooed me back basically," she said, and added that since then she has never searched a man's phone.

Names changed to protect identity.

Cellphone related signs your spouse might be cheating

Your partner turns off his/her cell phone when in your presence.

The person moves away from you to take his/her calls.

Your spouse gets angry if you answer his/her cell phone.

Your partner is defensive when you mention these behaviours.

Tips from Cathy Meyer facilitator of Divorce Support Guide, at http://divorcesupport.about.com