A widespread IT outage has disrupted operations across major banks, media outlets, and airlines worldwide. Particularly affected is Australia, where flights have been grounded, supermarkets have faced checkout issues, and broadcast networks have struggled with autocue, graphics, and computer failures. The US state of Alaska has also reported that its emergency services are impacted.
The exact cause of the outage remains unclear, but many affected institutions have linked it to Microsoft PC operating systems. According to BBC reports, a Microsoft 365 service update mentioned an ongoing investigation into user access issues with various Microsoft 365 apps and services. However, a Microsoft spokesperson stated that most services were restored hours earlier.
A spokesperson for Australia’s Home Affairs Minister suggested the outage might be related to an issue at global cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike, with the country’s cybersecurity watchdog noting no evidence of an attack. “Our current information is this outage relates to a technical issue with a third-party software platform employed by affected companies,” they said in a statement.
In Alaska, officials have reported malfunctions in 911 and non-emergency call centers. Australian telecom firm Telstra confirmed that triple-0 call centers, the primary emergency contact in Australia, remain operational but is working with state emergency services to implement backup processes.
At Sydney Airport, departure boards went blank, and Jetstar announced to passengers in the domestic terminal that an “issue with Microsoft” prevented them from checking in or boarding flights. Virgin Australia also reported a “complete ground stop” of flights.
Social media users have highlighted long queues at Australian stores like Woolworths, with payment systems down, and difficulties accessing financial institutions such as the National Australia Bank.
