Nampa dispatch warns about prank 911 calls after viral post

July 2024 · 1 minute read

A dangerous prank is once again making its rounds on social media.

It's targeted at iPhone users.

The viral meme encourages people to tell Siri '108' — immediately dialing emergency services.

The recent prank post was made just two weeks ago and has been shared more than 102-thousand times.

"Potentially, you're jeopardizing someone in a real emergency," said Carmen Boeger with Nampa City 911 Dispatch. "I don't think people think about that. I don't know that they think about the repercussions and put themselves in that position of the person whose emergency is being delayed."

So, why does this happen?

108 is the emergency number in India. Apple programmed Siri to recognize emergency numbers from all over the world. Siri then automatically routes the call to local authorities.

Great right? Until someone starts using it as a prank.

What many people don't realize is that prank calling 911 is actually a crime and you can be punished if it becomes an issue for dispatchers.

So, if you see a three digit code on Facebook, no matter what it is, do not take the risk in saying it to Siri.

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