The Independent sends journalists to developing stories across topics such as reproductive rights, climate change and Big Tech. Donations allow continued reporting without paywalls by funding free quality journalism. An emergency alert drill will take place on Sunday September 7 around 3pm, sending a 10-second siren and a confirmation message to phones on 4G and 5G networks. Charities warn that the sound could reveal hidden phones belonging to domestic abuse victims. Instructions are provided for iPhone and Android users to opt out of Severe & Emergency Alerts. Theatre-goers will be advised to turn phones off and drivers urged to avoid distraction.
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
On Sunday September 7 at around 3pm, mobile phones on 4G and 5G networks will vibrate, emit a siren for up to 10 seconds, and display a message confirming the alert is a drill. But there are concerns that the sound could reveal hidden phones belonging to domestic abuse victims and groups are advising them how to opt out of the alert.
To opt out, iPhone users should go to settings, search for Emergency Alerts, and turn off Severe & Emergency Alerts. Android users can do the same by searching Emergency Alerts in settings and switching off Severe & Emergency Alerts. Meanwhile, theatre-goers will be advised to turn their phones off and drivers are urged not to be distracted if they are behind the wheel when the alert takes place.
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