Sweden introduces new mobile warning system, SE-Alert
During the summer, the new system SE-Alert will be introduced in Sweden – a new way to quickly alert the public in case of accidents, crises, and in the worst case, war.
The system will complement today’s VMA system, which is Important Message to the Public, currently sent out via radio, TV, apps, SMS, and the outdoor signal Hesa Fredrik.
SE-Alert is based on cell broadcast technology, which means that the warning is sent to all compatible mobile phones within a geographical area simultaneously – without using individual phone numbers.
The only requirements are that the mobile phone:
- is turned on
- connected to the mobile network
- updated with the latest software
The system will work on mobile phones from 2016 onwards and is estimated to cover more than 95 percent of Sweden’s area. The new signal will also sound different compared to regular SMS or push notifications.
The background to the initiative includes experiences from Ukraine, where similar systems have been used since the full-scale invasion began. Similar systems already exist in several other countries and have long been requested within Swedish civil defense.
The ability to send mass SMS already exists today, but the system can become overloaded during major events. An example highlighted is the fire at Oceana in Gothenburg, where some SMS took up to a day to reach recipients. With SE-Alert, the warning should instead be able to reach everyone in the area almost immediately.
Four different levels of alarm
SE-Alert will have four different warning levels. The highest level – air raid alarm – cannot be turned off. Even though the lower levels can be deactivated, authorities recommend keeping the function enabled.
Just like today, messages can be sent out by, among others:
- The police
- The rescue service
- The Swedish Transport Administration
- Authorities
The system begins implementation on July 1 and should be fully operational by the end of the year. The first major test is planned for September – at the same time as the classic Hesa Fredrik signal is tested.