Victims of domestic abuse who have a concealed phone hidden from their abuser can switch off the government’s new emergency alert system.
On Sunday, April 23rd, all 4G and 5G compatible phones will receive a test message on the system which will include a 10 second alarm and vibration – regardless if you have the volume switched on or off.
The alert system will be used going forward to warn residents of major weather events or any other danger to life, health or property.
But concerns have been raised that those who have secret phones hidden from their abusers could be put at increased risk should the alert go off.
Now Victims’ Commissioner Nicky Brennan and Assistant Police and Crime Commissioner Tom McNeil have revealed how the system can be turned off if you are a victim of domestic abuse and rely on a secret phone.
The new Emergency Alerts use several channels and the ability to opt in or out is determined by the channel type.
Opt Out iPhone:
- To opt out, search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’ and turn off Severe alerts and Emergency alerts.
- If this does not work, contact your device manufacturer.
- For further advice go to gov.uk/alerts/opt-out
Opt Out Android phones and tablets:
- To opt out, search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’ and turn off Severe alerts and Emergency alerts.
- On Huawei devices running EMUI 11 or older, search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’ and please turn off “Extreme threats”, “Severe threats” and “Show amber alerts”
- If this does not work, contact your device manufacturer
Victims’ Commissioner Nicky Brennan said: “I know first hand of many victims of domestic abuse who have a concealed phone as a lifeline, allowing them to keep in touch with friends and family or to be used in an emergency.
“While the emergency alert system is understandable, it is also vital we raise awareness that this can be switched off for those who need it.
“I urge anybody who has a concealed phone for their own safety to switch off these alerts.”
Assistant Police and Crime Commissioner Tom McNeil added: “Sadly too many people, particularly women, are living with an abusive partner and find themselves needing to have secret phones in case of an emergency. That’s why we’re working to raise awareness on how to switch this alert off in case you are put at increased risk from a partner finding out you have a secret or secondary phone.
“Even if your phone is set to silent it will still go off, so please see our guidance on how to disable the alerts.”
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