Cyprus launches nationwide emergency warning system

Cyprus officially launched its nationwide emergency warning system, CY-Alert, on Tuesday, enabling the government to send immediate alerts to mobile phones across the country. The system, developed jointly by the interior ministry and the deputy research ministry, uses Cell Broadcast technology to deliver notifications directly to compatible devices without internet access or app installation. It will become fully operational by next Tuesday, with public test exercises conducted over the next three weeks. Messages will include information about emergencies and instructions for protection or evacuation, delivered in Greek and English with a distinctive sound and vibration. The alerts will bypass silent or mute settings and reach users regardless of their mobile provider or SIM card origin, ensuring reliability during crises. A dedicated 1450 call center will begin operating from Wednesday to assist citizens with technical guidance on receiving alerts, which requires devices to be updated to the latest Android or iOS software. Civil Defence will issue alerts through licensed mobile networks, and officials emphasized that no personal data will be collected or stored. The system follows previous tests of emergency SMS systems during regional instability, including tensions after a drone strike at Akrotiri earlier this year. Those tests caused confusion among some residents due to delayed or unclear messages, prompting improvements in the new CY-Alert system. Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou stated that the system strengthens trust between the state and public while ensuring immediate access to reliable information during emergencies. Deputy Research Minister Nicodimos Damianou added that the technology guarantees real-time communication, even during network congestion or high user demand.