A simulated Public Warning System (PWS) message is defined for efficient PWS testing. The simulated PWS message mimics a conventional PWS message, but indicates that it is not to be propagated across an air interface to UEs. However, the simulated PWS message is otherwise propagated through the network as a PWS message. This allows for testing the generation and propagation of PWS messages, without wasting valuable air interface and battery resources. In some embodiments, network nodes may initiate testing by requesting a simulated PWS message. An Access and Mobility management Function (AMF) node in a wireless communication network collects and reports network status to a PWS entity. The AMF node ascertains the functionality of network functions, nodes, and interfaces to which it is connected, independently from receiving reports of such functionality, and an indication of any detected fault or failure is sent to the PWS entity.