Warning to Android phone users following rise in 999 calls

BT is reporting a significant increase in accidental calls to 999 following an Android mobile phone update.

The new version of the operating system triggers an SOS when a button on the side of the phone is pressed five times.

Police have issued the following advice:

• If you do accidentally dial 999, don’t hang up. If possible, please stay on the line and let police know you are safe.

• Calls to 999 where the operator cannot hear anyone on the line (silent calls) are never just ignored.

• If you dial 999 and are unable to speak, please follow the instruction of our service advisers who are specially trained to help in these situations.

• If a crime is in progress or if there is an immediate risk to person or property, always dial 999.

Police have told Android users they can check their emergency dial settings on most phones by going to Settings and looking for SOS settings in the options.

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