Sweden Faces Emergency Call Disruptions as 2G and 3G Networks Shut Down

Sweden is undergoing a significant technological transition as the older 2G and 3G mobile networks are being phased out to make room for 4G and 5G. This shutdown threatens to block approximately 60,000 mobile phones from making emergency calls to number 112 after February 2, with at least 7,000 phones already unable to connect.

According to Post- och telestyrelsen (PTS), the agency overseeing telecommunications, this move is essential to free up frequency space for modern communication needs. However, it has serious implications not only for mobile phones but also for devices such as security alarms, robotic lawn mowers, and water and sewage sensors, which rely on these older networks.

A particular concern involves emergency calls routed by carriers like Tele2, Tre, and Telenor through Telia’s 2G network, a solution PTS has deemed insufficiently secure. Jonas Wessel, head of PTS, urged users to carefully monitor communications from their network operators and to replace outdated phones promptly. He stressed the importance of acting swiftly, advising against passing on older devices to others that might depend on emergency connectivity.

Wessel expressed regret that this critical issue surfaced late in the process, emphasizing that the safety risks linked to emergency call routing should have been addressed earlier. Despite this, PTS has declined to publish a specific list of affected device models, leaving users responsible for verifying their devices' compatibility with newer networks.

This transition highlights Sweden’s drive to modernize its telecommunications infrastructure, balancing technological advancement with public safety considerations. Users are strongly encouraged to check with their operators and update devices to ensure uninterrupted access to emergency services as the shutdown date approaches.