UK Conducts Successful Nationwide Test of Emergency Alert System on Millions of Mobile Devices

Millions of mobile phone users in the UK recently received a test emergency alert as part of the government's new public alert system. The alert, which included a loud alarm and vibration, was designed to warn people about life-threatening emergencies in their area, such as extreme weather, flooding, and wildfires. The alert was sent to every 4G and 5G device across the country and lasted for approximately 10 seconds.

Despite some concerns that the alerts could cause distractions, the government hopes that this test will help the public become more familiar with the alert system in case it needs to be used in the future. The technology works by broadcasting alerts via mobile phone masts, and it can be used on all 4G and 5G networks. Unlike SMS messages sent during the pandemic, these alerts don't require a phone number, and no location or other data is collected.

The government has assured the public that alerts will only be sent in life-threatening situations, and those who don't wish to receive them can opt-out in their device settings. However, the government hopes that many people will choose to keep them on. The EU has also introduced a directive requiring member states to have a phone-based public warning system, reflecting the increasing need for fast and direct communication with the public in emergencies.