Red alert: false calls from smartphones and smartwatches are exploding!

Red alert: false calls from smartphones and smartwatches are exploding!

In Saxony-Anhalt, the increasing number of accidental emergency calls from smartwatches and smartphones is causing a stir. The reports from MDR According to this, almost 2,000 false calls were registered in the Anhalt-Bitterfeld district alone this year. The increase in incorrect alerts is particularly noticeable in the Stendal district, where this number has doubled since the beginning of the year. In Wittenberg, around 250 such erroneous reports come together every month.

The main causes of these false alarms are accidental impacts or accidentally pressing emergency buttons. Dispatchers have to laboriously check incoming alarms and, if in doubt, call them back, which puts enormous strain on the emergency services. This strain can have tragic consequences as there could be missed real emergencies. “Unclear situations lead to rescue equipment being set in motion, which can be critical in an emergency,” say the experts.

The consequences of false alarms

Monetizing these false positives is also an issue that cannot be ignored. An operation costs several hundred euros, and in an emergency, taxpayers usually cover the costs. These financial aspects are not unimportant when you consider how often emergency calls are triggered incorrectly.

Despite the technical challenges, many people see smartwatches as a real security benefit. These devices can provide life-saving help in an emergency. Seniors in particular are increasingly turning to smartwatches to ensure safety and to be able to call for help quickly if the worst comes to the worst. This supports the view that such technologies, although inherently flawed, also offer major benefits.

The role of automated emergency calls

As can be seen from further reports from NDR shows that automated emergency calls are made not only by smartwatches, but also by cell phones and emergency call systems in cars. In Hanover there have been 60 of these automated alarms so far in 2025, with the majority being classified as false alarms.

Especially in large cities, the frequency of these automated reports is almost impressive. Carsten Schneider from the German Fire Brigade Association (DFV) points out that there are no exact statistics on the proportion of these unintentional emergency calls, but the number of real and false alarms sent is roughly balanced. “Real emergency calls can help quickly in some cases,” he emphasizes.

Although the fire department is aware of the problems, it sees no serious cause for concern. In the event of an accidental emergency call, smartwatch users should try to cancel it immediately or contact 112 again to clarify that no help is needed. Alternatives such as home emergency services are also options that should be considered.

What to do if there are false alarms?

To avoid these unfortunate situations, it is advisable that smartwatch and smartphone owners take a close look at how their devices work. Understanding the technology can help to avoid false alarms as much as possible. In addition, if you make an accidental emergency call, it is advisable to call back as quickly as possible and clarify the situation.

In conclusion, despite the challenges associated with the use of these technologies, some benefits cannot be denied. Because in an emergency, quick action can be crucial, and that's exactly why smartwatches and other technologies were developed.