10-08-2025
Exact date millions of Scots will be sent emergency government alert to phones
The system is designed for situations where there is an imminent danger to life, such as extreme weather or a terror attack
BE AWARE Exact date millions of Scots will be sent emergency government alert to phones
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MILLIONS of mobile phones across Scotland are set to receive another emergency alert in weeks.
The system is designed for situations where there is an imminent danger to life, such as extreme weather or a terror attack.
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Millions of Scots have been warned to expect another emergency alert test
Credit: PA
And it is hoped that the mobile phone alerts could save lives during raging storms or when wildfires break out.
After previous tests in 2023, the system was used for real earlier this year.
Back in January, the Government issued an alert during Storm Eowyn to warn people in Scotland and Northern Ireland about severe weather.
At the time, a red weather warning was in place, meaning there was a risk to life.
It was the largest ever use of the system, with around 4.5 million people receiving the alert.
And now a Cabinet minister has revealed that Scots are set to receive another test alert in the coming weeks.
On Sunday, September 7, at around 3pm, mobile phones across Scotland connected to 4G and 5G will receive the test alert.
During the test, mobile phones will vibrate and make a loud siren-like sound for roughly ten seconds, even if they are set to silent.
iPhone and Android users will have to acknowledge the alert before they can continue using their devices.
In addition to vibrations and noise, mobile phone users will receive a message, making it clear the alert is only a test.
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It will read: "This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a UK Government service that will warn you if there's a life-threatening emergency nearby.
"You do not need to take any action.
"In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe.
"Find simple and effective advice on how to prepare for emergencies at
SCAM WARNING
SCOTS have previously been warned about potential scams by criminals seeking to exploit the Emergency Alert System test.
Advice Direct Scotland said people should be wary of requests from anyone claiming to be connected to the alerts system asking for remote access to mobile phones or other devices.
The charity also stressed that any requests for personal or financial information through text message, email, or by telephone claiming to be related to testing activity would be bogus.
Lyndsay McFee, team lead at said: 'For the activity on Sunday, April 23, you will receive a notification saying that there is a test taking place which will pop up on your screen and can be swiped away like any other alert.
'The system does not track your location, require your phone number to be entered, or collect any of your personal data.
'Scammers often reach out through text message, email, or by phone call to request what may seem like insignificant information.
"However, these tactics can be used to gather our data to use against us later.
'If you receive a request from someone claiming to be contacting you in relation to the alerts, you can report this using the Quick Reporting Tool at or alternatively by contacting the team at
Cabinet minister Pat McFadden said the drill will be one of the biggest public safety exercises" in UK history.
He said: "From major storms to wildfires, this system could save your life in an emergency.
"Just like the fire alarm in your house, it's important we test the system so that we know it will work if we need it.
"This test will be one of the biggest public safety exercises in our nation's history.
"Mark the date, spread the word and take a moment to think about how you would respond in a real emergency."
There are estimated to be 87 million mobile phones in the UK.
