To activate the Amber Alert, broadcasters use the Emergency Alert System (EAS) to air a profile of the abducted child and suspected abductor and vehicle information to the general public. AMBER Alerts are distributed via commercial radio stations, satellite radio, television stations, and cable TV by the EAS (where they are termed "Child Abduction Emergency"), as well as via e-mail, electronic traffic-condition signs, and wireless device SMS text messages. In some states, lottery terminals are also used.

Summary of Department of Justice Recommended Criteria for Activating an Amber Alert

• There is reasonable belief by law enforcement that an abduction has occurred.
• The law enforcement agency believes that the child is in imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death.
• There is enough descriptive information about the victim and the abduction for law enforcement to issue an AMBER Alert to assist in the recovery of the child.
• The abduction is of a child aged 17 years or younger.
• The child’s name and other critical data elements, including the Child Abduction flag, have been entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) system.