National Emergency Alert: guidance for domestic abuse victims

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 23 April, 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.

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 turn off ‘Extreme threats’, ‘Severe threats’ and ‘Show amber alerts’.

If this does not work, contact your device manufacturer.

Kate Wallace, chief executive of Victim Support Scotland said: “We know there will be people affected by domestic abuse who have concealed phones in case of an emergency.

“The planned government emergency alert test on Sunday 23 April will mean these phones could make a loud sound and be exposed to abusers.

“We encourage anyone who may have a concealed phone to follow the advice for iPhones and Android devices, to turn these alerts off and their phones off to avoid detection.”