If your calling plan doesn't include text messaging, you will be billed to receive a text message if you open it. However, the cost is very low, usually around 10 cents per text message. MSU Alert will only use text messages for emergencies, maintenance and a test each spring and fall semester.

The intent of an emergency notification system is to notify as many individuals as possible during a life-threatening situation. Placing individuals directly into the system initially and offering them the ability to “opt-out” achieves this intent more effectively than asking all individuals to "opt-in".

To opt out of MSU Alerts simply:

  • Reply “STOP” to any SMS communications you receive from the system
  • Follow the provided link located at the bottom of email communications
  • Follow prompts given during phone communications

Opt-out issues and concerns should be directed to the administrator at sbogan@montana.edu. Please, include “MSU Alert Opt-Out” in the subject line.

Yes! Anyone with an interest in receiving MSU alert messages will have the ability to “opt-in” to the system. Individuals can opt in by texting “montanastate” to 888-777.

You can verify your cellphone number and contact information for MSU Alerts by logging into MyInfo and selecting the “personal information” link.

Your first name, last name, student/employee ID number, cell phone number, preferred email address, university email address, and campus housing address. The MSU alert system does not use social security numbers or birthdates.

No. The e-mail address and phone numbers entered into the system will only be used for emergency messages, testing and necessary system maintenance.

No. The system will only be used for emergency messages, testing and necessary maintenance.

No. The system will only contact members during an immediate or dangerous situation.

The message would be very short and direct. An example:

 MSU ALERT: This is a message from Montana State University Police. An earthquake has affected campus. Remain calm. Evacuate buildings, as necessary. Report injuries and fire to 911. Do not use matches or lighters.

Text message alerts are reserved for the most urgent situations. Typically, less than a half-dozen MSU Alerts are issued via text message each year. 

This partnership allows Montana State University and Gallatin County to send pertinent lifesaving emergency notifications to individuals who are enrolled in the system. Gallatin County will only send alerts to the MSU community when a serious threat to life and safety is present. The county will never spam users. Communications from the system will arrive from the "Gallatin Community Notification System". 

Enrollment into MSU Alert will not interrupt a users subscription to the Gallatin County Community Notification System. Users enrolled in both systems will never receive duplicate messages through identical communication channels. The MSU Alert system only provides emergency notifications to users. The Gallatin County Community Notification System offers additional notifications such as road closures and community events. Any users wishing to receive additional notifications from the county should register at: https://www.readygallatin.com/public-warning/community-notification-system/