'Do not hang up': Plea as number of accidental 999 calls from Android phones increase in Scotland

Android phone users across Scotland are being urged not to hang up as the number of accidental 999 calls increases following a recent update.

Phone operator BT has reported a significant increase in accidental phone calls following the software update, which triggers an SOS when the phone’s power button is pressed five times.

Police Scotland is urging people to not hang up when this happens – instead, stay on the line and tell the operator you are safe.

A statement by the force said: “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.”

Even though the feature was released in Android 12 in 2021, particular issues have been reported since the update to Android 13 last year.

The Android software is developed by Google, however the guidance on how to disable the SOS feature is on individual manufacturers’ websites.