Police have warned Android phone users about a new smartphone update which has led to an increase in accidental 999  calls

Greater Manchester Police said that BT were reporting an increased number of calls after the new update which connects to the 999 service on pressing a side button five times.

A police spokeman said: “BT are reporting a significant increase in accidental calls to the 999-service following a recent Android update that triggers an SOS when a button on the side of your phone is pressed five times.”

GMP gave instructions on how to turn the functionality off to avoid making the calls.

The spokesman said: “If you have an Android phone, you can check your emergency settings to turn off the functionality added in the latest update.

Bury Times:

“Go to ‘Settings’ then ‘Safety and Emergency’ and slide the button which says ‘Emergency SOS’ to switch the functionality off.

“Calls to 999 where the operator cannot hear anyone on the line (silent calls) are never just ignored.

“If you do accidentally dial 999, please don’t hang up and let the operator know it was an accident and that you don’t need any assistance.”

Officers warned that calls will not be ignored if made accidentally, so people should let operators know if it is a mistake.