Dangerous Advice: Experts Debunk Viral ‘Change Your Voicemail’ Tip for Lost Hikers

October 26, 2021

A viral social media post suggests anyone lost outdoors while hiking or exploring should change their outgoing voicemail message to a distress call with their current location and situation.

In short, the tip suggests that when you lose your way on a backcountry hike, for example, you can change your outgoing voicemail to provide critical details about your situation — approximate location, nearby landmarks, and any pressing dangers. This way, the theory goes, anyone who attempts to reach you — even search and rescue — will have much of the information they need to assist. Gear Junkie