UK Government Emergency Alert System Test

The UK Government's Emergency Alert System will be tested on Sunday, 7th September 2025 at 3:00 PM BST. We are aware of concerns about its potential impact on domestic abuse victims, particularly those with concealed phones. Please see below the key risks for domestic abuse victims, and information on opting out.

Key Risks for Domestic Abuse Victims

• Loud alerts: The test will trigger a siren-like sound and vibration on mobile phones for about 10 seconds, even if the device is on silent
• Hidden devices: For survivors who keep a concealed phone for safety or emergency contact, this alert could expose the device’s presence to an abuser
• Technology-facilitated abuse: There are concerns that alerts could be misused by abusers to detect hidden phones, adding to the growing issue of technology-facilitated abuse

Further details and instructions on how to opt out can be found via the following links:

Emergency Alert Test: Frequently Asked Questions - GOV.UK

Opting out of emergency alerts - GOV.UK