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New Emergency Alert System Launched via SafeCY App in Cyprus

Published March 11, 2026, 12:10
New Emergency Alert System Launched via SafeCY App in Cyprus

The Cypriot government, through the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, has upgraded the SafeCY application with a new emergency alert feature for security, risk, or emergency situations. The upgrade was implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and Civil Defence, aiming for timely information and citizen protection. The new feature allows for the sending of push notifications to app users, as well as targeted notifications to users in specific geographic areas affected by an incident. Deputy Minister Nikodimos Damianou emphasized that the use of technology is crucial for strengthening mechanisms for immediate and timely information. The new feature complements the sending of SMS warning messages, which were successfully tested last Friday. Simultaneously, the primary method of informing the public during emergencies remains the sounding of sirens in conjunction with information from local authorities. The SafeCY application has already surpassed 170,000 downloads, and citizens are encouraged to install or update it to the latest version. Furthermore, the Early Warning System, based on Cell Broadcasting technology, is under implementation and is expected to be launched in early June. This system will provide another level of early warning for citizens. The new SafeCY feature represents a significant step towards creating a multi-layered mechanism for informing the population in cases of danger or emergency, which did not exist until now. The government is committed to continuing to invest in technology to protect and ensure the safety of citizens.