Nationwide alert test on Wednesday, 2:20 pm ET, assesses reliability of Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts for crisis readiness.
Get ready for a nationwide alert test set to ring every cellphone in the United States this Wednesday at 2:20 pm ET.
As we learn in a recent government press release, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) are teaming up to ensure that the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) remain effective in notifying the public about emergencies.
This comprehensive test aims to assess the systems' reliability, making sure they are ready for any national-level crisis.
What You Need to Know
NBC News tells us that starting at approximately 2:20 pm ET, your wireless phone will receive an alert and accompanying text message that reads, "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed."
Depending on your device's language settings, this text will be sent in either English or Spanish. Importantly, it will also include a unique tone and vibration designed to ensure accessibility for all, including those with disabilities.
The test will be broadcast through cell towers for about 30 minutes. To receive the text message, your wireless phone must be turned on, within the range of an active cell tower, and your wireless provider must participate in WEA tests.
Additionally, all radios and televisions will broadcast a test emergency alert for approximately one minute simultaneously.
This message will state, "This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action is required by the public."
Rest assured, no action is needed on your part once you receive the emergency alert test on your phone or hear it through the radio or TV.
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Testing History
CNN reports that this test marks the seventh nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, which delivers alerts via radio and television broadcasters.
However, it is only the third nationwide test of the Wireless Emergency Alerts, specifically targeting consumer cellular devices.
The most recent combined test of both systems occurred in 2021, while the first-ever Emergency Alert System test occurred over a decade ago in 2011.
Improved Security Measures
Past incidents of mobile emergency alert system errors underscore the importance of these tests. One of the most notorious instances occurred in 2018 when a Hawaii state emergency management worker accidentally triggered a false ballistic missile threat alert.
FEMA has also addressed security concerns, pointing out vulnerabilities in software used by TV and radio networks that transmit emergency alerts.
While there is no evidence of malicious hackers exploiting these vulnerabilities for text messages, operators have been urged to update their software to ensure system integrity.
Stay posted here at Tech Times.
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