Testing of the SI-ALARM system next Saturday: here are the key announcements

Slovenia is actively preparing to test a new national public warning and information system, called SI-ALARM. The main goal of the test is to verify the operation of the system, both from the perspective of operators and users.

What should mobile phone users do?

All users must update their mobile phones in a timely manner, which will enable the correct reception of such messages. Dr. Miroslav Kranjc, State Secretary at the Ministry of Digital Transformation, specifically warned users of Apple devices, as the manufacturer has released a new version of the iOS operating system, and without an update, test messages will most likely not appear on these devices. For users of devices with the Android operating system, no additional updates are required.

In addition to the updates, it is recommended that users check whether they are connected to one of the Slovenian mobile networks before testing. This is especially important for those who live or will be located near the state border during the testing period.

Operation and characteristics of the SI-ALARM system

The Director General of the Protection and Rescue Administration, Leon Behin, emphasized the efforts to keep the population as informed as possible, with special attention being paid to vulnerable groups such as the deaf and hard of hearing and the blind and visually impaired. The SI-ALARM system will allow for different levels of notification depending on the level of danger, with the highest levels requiring urgent and immediate action. A two-stage message verification system has been established to ensure the accuracy and verifiability of information.

The system is based on cellular broadcasting technology, which means that every user in the threatened area receives a notification. It is important to ensure the protection of personal data, as user data remains anonymous.

As part of the preparations, approximately one hundred dispatchers in call centers who will be responsible for triggering notifications were trained in cooperation with Telekom Slovenije, and special technical equipment was also installed. Mag. Vesna Prodnik from Telekom Slovenije ensured that Telekom Slovenije and other operators are fully prepared for testing.

Where can you find additional information?

All detailed information about the SI-ALARM system, its operation, ensuring privacy and examples of different notification levels are available on the website www.gov.si/si-alarm