Government tests emergency terror alert system that sounds siren from mobiles
22 June 2021, 14:44
The new system is designed to make people aware of danger to life, such as terror, flooding, fires, explosions or public health emergencies.
An emergency alert system to make the public aware of terrorist incidents and severe flooding has been tested, playing a siren sound on a small number of smartphones on Tuesday afternoon.
The Government’s new warning signal pings smartphones and tablets with a message that may be read out and a loud siren-like ring, even if the device is set on silent.
It is designed to notify people if there is a danger to life nearby from incidents such as flooding, fires, explosions, terrorism or public health emergencies.
Scoffing lunch with my old man and he receives one of those emergency mobile alerts being tested today. Slightly unnerving!
— Kyle Molyneux (@KyleMolyneux) June 22, 2021
The Government said there was a “small chance” Android handset owners across the UK may receive a test alert between 1pm and 2pm on Tuesday.
Another test is due to take place next week for both iPhone and Android devices, but will be limited to the those situated in Reading, Berkshire only.
“This is a mobile network operator test of the Emergency Alerts service,” the alert read.
“You do not need to take any action. To find out more, search for gov.uk/alerts.”
Anyone else get these emergency alerts on their phones? In UK They're doing tests for whatever reason.It's on the UK broadcasting website, that it's just tests, but what for? https://t.co/G39SYWQesZ pic.twitter.com/4nWC7fX5Wc
— Doctor Anarchy 🇬🇧 (@JayRaw84) June 22, 2021
The system is expected to launch fully at some point this summer, providing information and advice to certain areas affected by an incident.
They are broadcast from masts to every compatible mobile phone or tablet in range, based on a person’s current location.
Other countries such as the US already use such technology to make people aware of imminent danger from threats such as tornadoes, and even used it in some states for the coronavirus pandemic.
The Government does not need an individual’s phone number to send the alert and has assured that no data will be collected or shared.
Alerts will not be received if the device is turned off or in aeroplane mode, and users can also opt to block them within the settings.
