Methods and devices for generated and handling an alert are described. In one aspect, an electronic device includes an input interface and an output interface. The electronic device also includes a memory storing an application and a processor coupled to the input interface, the output interface and the memory. The processor is configured to generate a selectable alert on the output interface while the electronic device is in a device lock mode. The selectable alert is associated with the secure application. The processor is also configured to, while the electronic device is in the device lock mode, receive, from the input interface, a signal representing a command to activate the selectable alert. The processor is also configured to, responsive to receiving the command to activate the selectable alert, execute a secure event in the secure application while the electronic device remains in the device lock mode.