Does pressing the power button 5 times call 911?

Be Careful With That Power Button—It Might Call 911

If you're an Android user, you might want to rethink how you handle your phone—especially if you're in the habit of rapidly tapping the power button. A recent update has changed how the emergency SOS feature works, and it’s leading to a surprising number of accidental 911 calls.

Pressing the power button five times in quick succession now automatically triggers a call to 911—no confirmation needed. Unlike previous versions or other smartphone platforms that require extra steps or a confirmation prompt, this new default setting skips straight to the emergency call. What was intended as a safety feature for real emergencies is now being set off by mistake during everyday phone use.

Emergency responders across the U.S. have reported a spike in silent or unintended 911 calls, many traced back to this exact feature. Dispatchers often arrive to find no emergency—just someone unaware their quick button taps could summon help.

It’s a powerful reminder that while technology aims to keep us safer, it can sometimes create new risks. The best move? Learn how your phone's SOS feature works—especially if you have kids or pass your phone around often. And if you don’t want this level of sensitivity, you can adjust the setting in your phone’s safety or emergency menu. Most Android devices let you disable or modify the auto-call function under Settings > Safety & Emergency.

Bottom line: That five-tap shortcut is meant for true emergencies. In the meantime, a little awareness can save everyone a lot of stress—and prevent tying up emergency lines when they’re needed most.