Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus carried out a nationwide test of the CY-Alert emergency warning system on Monday through a simulated missing person alert sent to mobile phones. Some members of the public reported that they did not receive the test notification.
Nationwide system test
The exercise was part of testing procedures for the CY-Alert system and was intended to assess the operation of the platform on a nationwide basis.
The message sent to users clearly stated that it was a test and did not require any action from the public.
Monday’s exercise was the first time the system was tested simultaneously across the island. A previous exercise on June 2 covered only Pissouri, Moniatis and Psevdas.
System presentation and operation
The new national public warning system was officially presented on May 26.
CY-Alert allows Civil Defence to send immediate alerts to mobile phones located within a specific geographical area during emergencies or serious threats to public safety.
The system operates through mobile networks and does not require users to download an application or register. Alerts are delivered instantly to compatible devices located within the affected area.
Public guidance
Civil Defence urged the public to update their mobile phone software and activate the relevant settings to receive future CY-Alert notifications, including alerts related to abductions and missing persons.
Authorities said notification settings may vary depending on the device.
