Britons have raised concerns about not receiving the emergency alert sent out by the government to mobile phones. The alert, which was part of a system test conducted on Sunday around 3 pm, caused phones connected to 4G and 5G networks to vibrate and sound for approximately 10 seconds. This was the second test following the initial one in 2023. However, some individuals reported that they either received the alert late or did not receive it at all.
Some individuals took to social media to express their dissatisfaction with the timing of the alert. One person mentioned that the alert was supposed to go off at 3:00 pm but actually went off at 3:01 pm. Others shared similar sentiments, with one user stating, “The emergency alert looms.”
Furthermore, there were complaints from individuals who claimed they did not receive the alert altogether. One person wrote, “Did anyone else not get the emergency test alert? no message, no noise, nothing.”
Prior to the test, the government had stated that alerts would be sent to all compatible 4G and 5G mobile phones and tablets across the UK. It was estimated that approximately 95% of the population with access to 4G or 5G networks would receive the alert, while those using older devices with only 2G or 3G connectivity or solely WiFi would not receive the message.
Devices that were switched off or in airplane mode at the time of the alert would not have received the notification. However, having the device on silent mode would not have affected the reception of the alert. Special considerations were made for individuals in sensitive situations, such as domestic abuse survivors with secret phones.
The emergency alert was designed to function on iPhones running iOS 14.5 or later, as well as Android devices running Android 11 or later. Users who had not updated their devices to the latest software versions may not have received the alert.
Reports indicated that sporting events, including the England versus South Africa cricket match and the Super League derby between Hull KR and Hull FC, had to make adjustments due to the alert. Additionally, theater attendees were advised to turn off their phones, and drivers were cautioned against distractions while on the road.
The message sent to mobile phone users clearly indicated that the alert was a drill. The government has utilized the system to issue real warnings on five occasions, including during Storm Eowyn in January to alert people in Scotland and Northern Ireland about severe weather.
During previous emergencies, such as Storm Darragh in December last year and the discovery of a 500kg unexploded Second World War bomb in a Plymouth backyard in February, alerts were successfully sent out to millions of individuals. The system allows for targeted messages to specific areas to ensure those at risk are notified promptly.
In instances like the flooding in Cumbria in May 2024 and Leicestershire in January this year, the system proved effective in reaching and alerting thousands of individuals. The system is designed to be utilized during potential emergencies that could impact the UK, with warnings also being broadcasted on television, radio, and through local outreach efforts.
Government officials have engaged with domestic violence charities and advocates to address concerns from individuals who may need to opt out of receiving such alerts.
