When you are in an abusive relationship it is common to keep a secret mobile phone or similar device to allow you to seek support and resources when required. Domestic Abuse Charities have raised concerns that an unexpected alert, issued by the UK Government, may alert an abuser to any hidden phones or devices. Find out more below on how you can turn this system off to keep yourself and/or others safe.
The UK Government helps us to understand what Emergency Alerts are used for;
"Emergency Alerts is a UK government service that will warn you if there’s a danger to life nearby.
The UK Government helps us to understand what Emergency Alerts are used for;
"Emergency Alerts is a UK government service that will warn you if there’s a danger to life nearby.
In an emergency, your mobile phone or tablet will receive an alert with advice about how to stay safe".
How Emergency Alerts works is also explained by the UK Government;
"In an emergency, mobile phone masts in the surrounding area will broadcast an alert. Every compatible mobile phone or tablet in range of a mast will receive the alert. Emergency alerts work on all 4G and 5G phone networks in the UK.
"In an emergency, mobile phone masts in the surrounding area will broadcast an alert. Every compatible mobile phone or tablet in range of a mast will receive the alert. Emergency alerts work on all 4G and 5G phone networks in the UK.
Your mobile phone or tablet does not have to be connected to mobile data or wifi to get alerts.
Emergency alerts are free. You do not need to sign up for them or download an app".
Opting Out of Emergency Alerts can be actioned, however, the Government does advise that Alerts should be switched on for individual's safety.
To Opt Out;
Search your Settings for ‘Emergency Alerts’.
Turn off ‘Severe Alerts’ and ‘Extreme Alerts’.
If you still receive alerts, contact your device's Manufacturer for support.
This helpful Video, published by The Independent on behalf of Refuge, helps to learn how to turn off these alerts
Sources;
How Emergency Alerts Work UK Government
About Emergency Alerts UK Government
Refuge Video
To Opt Out;
Search your Settings for ‘Emergency Alerts’.
Turn off ‘Severe Alerts’ and ‘Extreme Alerts’.
If you still receive alerts, contact your device's Manufacturer for support.
This helpful Video, published by The Independent on behalf of Refuge, helps to learn how to turn off these alerts
Sources;
How Emergency Alerts Work UK Government
About Emergency Alerts UK Government
Refuge Video