Pocket Dialing

Pocket dialing, or pocket-calling, happens when a person's mobile phone accidentally dials someone, often unbeknownst to the person whose phone is making the call. The phone is usually located in the dialer's pocket or purse, hence the name "pocket dialing". The recipient of the call usually hears a loud and random noise if the phone is answered, and if not answered, can receive a long and potentially incriminating message.

Pocket dialing is a large problem for emergency operators (9-1-1 for example) for whom as much as 50% of emergency calls are accidental calls. On many older phones in the United States, pushing and holding down the number '9' key will cause the phone to automatically dial 911. In many regions, the operators must spend time and resources to determine whether the call is real or accidental. The phone calls often sound similar to the sorts of struggles people have while being involved in an actual emergency.

Locking the phone's key pad is the easiest way to avoid pocket dialing. Also, not programming 911 into the contacts or speed dial on a mobile can prevent pocket dialing of 911.