112: The Alert System You Cannot Block – How Does the Emergency Message Reach Your Phone?

When disaster strikes, seconds matter. The 112 emergency alert system is designed to cut through the noise and deliver critical warnings directly to mobile phones in affected areas, regardless of user settings. Unlike regular messages, emergency alerts use Cell Broadcast technology, a one-to-many communication method that sends messages simultaneously to all devices within specific cell tower ranges. This technology does not require knowing individual phone numbers and cannot be blocked by spam filters or do-not-disturb settings. The alerts appear with distinctive sounds and visual warnings, ensuring they capture attention. Greece adopted this system following devastating wildfires and floods, recognizing the need for rapid public warning capabilities. The system can target specific geographic areas with precision, warning only those in danger zones. It supports multiple languages to reach tourists and foreign residents. Understanding how 112 alerts work helps citizens respond appropriately when they receive warnings, potentially saving lives.