Symptoms
- Phone starts an emergency call countdown unexpectedly
- Loud alert sound plays suddenly
- Notification says emergency contacts were alerted
- Happens repeatedly while the phone is in a pocket or bag
Likely causes
- CommonButton combination triggered accidentally while in a pocket or bagThe emergency SOS gesture on most phones involves rapid or held button presses that can be triggered by pressure.
- PossibleCase interfering with buttons, causing accidental pressesA tight or poorly fitted case can press buttons without you realizing.
- PossibleSetting configured for a shorter/easier trigger than intendedSome phones let you adjust how easily this feature activates.
- Less commonPhysical button sticking and registering repeated pressesA worn or damaged button could register presses on its own.
What to do
- If a call was placed accidentally, stay on the line briefly to tell the dispatcher it was a mistake, since hanging up may prompt a callback or welfare check.
- Check your phone's emergency SOS settings and adjust to require a longer hold or additional confirmation.
- Check if your case is pressing on buttons and adjust or remove it.
- Clean around the buttons in case debris is causing them to stick.
- Update the phone's software in case of a known sensitivity bug.
- Consider carrying the phone in a different way if pocket pressure keeps triggering it.
When to call a pro
If you feel your physical buttons are genuinely stuck or malfunctioning and pressing on their own, have a repair shop inspect them.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.