Last week, the university conducted its semi-annual test of the CU Boulder Alert system. This means that, if you are signed up, you should have received a test alert on your mobile device and via email. Here are a few FAQs on CU Boulder Alerts.
Why do my friends get a text message when a message is sent, but I don’t?
This can happen for a few reasons. It’s possible that your cell number is not registered in the CU Boulder Alerts system. You can confirm your information by going to the CU Boulder Alerts page. Students’ contact information is automatically added to the Alerts system through MyCUInfo. All faculty and staff need to "opt in" to receive the text messages.
Why do I get the message a minute or two before my friends get their message?
When we send a CU Boulder Alert message, it goes to over 50,000 accounts and, unfortunately, this takes time. Delivery time can also be affected by the normal cell traffic in the area and a difference in mobile device service providers.
Will I get a message on my computer?
If you are in a CU computer lab, you should get a pop-up on your screen notifying you of the emergency. For faculty and staff, if you have a CU Boulder-issued computer, it will receive an alert if the software has been loaded. Please see this FAQ on installing the Alertus desktop software. At this time, you are not able to download that software on your personal computer.
Can my parents sign up to receive messaging?
No. We already have more than 50,000 contacts on the system. The more users in the system – especially ones who are not necessarily on campus – the longer it takes to deliver timely notifications. The Police Department is aware of parents’ desire to receive text message alerts and is evaluating ways to do that without affecting the speed of messages to students, faculty and staff.
My brother graduated from here two years ago. Why does he still receive notifications?
In the past, we have not had a successful method to remove students who have graduated from or left CU without possibly affecting the entire database. We ask users to remove their accounts when they are no longer CU affiliates. If you know someone who would like to be removed from the list, have them submit a request at help@colorado.edu.
