A massive global IT outage is today causing chaos at banks, airlines, TV broadcasters and more, after Windows workstations were hit by 'blue screen of death' error messages.
The first reports of issues came from Australia, but there are now confirmed problems across the US, UK and more. So far, we've seen major airlines included Delta and United stopping flights, TV networks like Sky News taken down in the UK, and widespread communications outages across Australia.
Some reports, including from Australia's Telstra Group, suggest Crowdstrike (the cyber security firm) could be the root cause, but this hasn't yet been confirmed. We've contacted Crowdstrike and Microsoft for an official response.
This story is developing – we'll bring you all the latest details as we get them below.
What we know so far
- A huge global IT outage is causing chaos across banks, airports and more
- TV broadcasters, banks, health services and airlines have been affected
- Microsoft says it's "investigating an issue" affecting Microsoft 365 apps
- Reports suggest the cyber security firm Crowdstrike could the root of the issues
What it's like at JFK airport right now
If you're not at an airport today, thank your lucky stars. Our colleague Kevin Addley (Future's SVP of Games, Entertainment, Technology and Sport) is currently trying to fly from New York City's JFK airport back to London – and is currently surrounded by confused crowds and screens showing the blue screen of death (as the photos below show).
Dozens of airports around the world have reported delays, including those in Berlin, Amsterdam, Budapest, Schipol, London Heathrow and more. But some, like London Gatwick, say that if you're planning to fly you should still arrive at your scheduled check-in time, despite the potential for delays.
More from Microsoft?
Microsoft, which has been worst hit by this outage, causing a knock-on across global systems, has issued a brief statement.
The company has said it is, "aware of an issue affecting Windows devices due to an update from a third-party software platform. We anticipate a resolution is forthcoming," according to The Verge.
