Yet another Major global tech outage....Microsoft!

[hollydolly]

I am now considering if I should get another Apple computer/laptop rather than Windows. I hate all the bloatware that is usually pre-installed and the constant updates on Windows. Do you use any sort of anti virus software on your iMac?

Mac OS has it's own built in anti-virus... and don't need any other. Having said that I have Eset Cyber Security Pro installed. It's Expensive and now only has basic coverage so I'm thinking of uninstalling it

 

[hollydolly]

Experts also warned the error by security firm CrowdStrike which hit Microsoft systems will cost the global economy trillions.

Crowdstrike chaos spreads to Dover: Hundreds of ticketless families cause massive jams as they turn up at busy port after flights are axed with thousands of Brits stranded abroad might not be home before Wednesday as outage may take weeks to fix​

• Hundreds of flights were cancelled at British airports yesterday due to the fault
• Have YOU been left stranded? Email emily.davies@mailonline.co.uk
• READ MORE: What caused the Microsoft's global outage?

By Emily Jane Davies and Jon Brady and Kitty Lawton and Rory Tingle
Published: 08:04, 20 July 2024 | Updated: 11:10, 20 July 2024





Hundreds of ticketless families are causing massive jams as they turn up at busy ports after flights were axed with thousands of Brits stranded abroad today.
Travel hell continues this weekend after the world's biggest IT disaster struck, with thousands of Brits stranded abroad.
Some passengers stuck overseas have been told they won't be able to get home until Wednesday at the latest after 50,000 flights going to, from or flying within the UK were hit by the disruption.
The Port of Dover said early this morning that it was dealing with 'hundreds of displaced' airport passengers and urged customers to ensure they had a booking before arrival.
Ferry operator DFDS said on X that there were wait times of up to 120 minutes at Dover border controls and 30 minutes at check-in.
The catastrophic IT failure impacted 300million computers worldwide and it could take weeks for all of them to be fixed.
Experts also warned the error by security firm CrowdStrike which hit Microsoft systems will cost the global economy trillions.

Passengers at St Pancras International Station today after the IT outage

Families wait in long queues at Bristol Airport last night waiting for an update

Passengers arriving at a very busy Bristol Airport face 5am long queues stretching out of the terminal building as airports across the world experienced technical difficulties

Crowds at the Port of Southampton yesterday as the ships struggled to board everyone

The Port of Dover X account posted this morning to warn: 'We are seeing hundreds of displaced airport passengers arriving at the Port, please ensure you have a booking before arrival.'

The meltdown affected planes, trains, hospitals, GPs, banks, and shops globally, falling on what was projected to be the busiest day for the aviation industry in five years.

IT experts were battling overnight to finish bringing healthcare, financial and travel companies' systems back online after they were crippled by the faulty update early on Friday.

Others could be feeling the pinch for a few days - as an organisation representing payroll workers warned that issues caused by the meltdown could delay people being paid.

CrowdStrike admitted responsibility for the issue which was caused by a buggy update to its Falcon security software.

 

[hollydolly]

Patients needing medication face more hassle this weekend as pharmacists warn of continued disruption following the world's biggest IT disaster.

The enormous IT failure by security firm Crowdstrike impacted 300 million computers across the globe and it may take weeks for them to be repaired.

The catastrophic IT outage, which hit Microsoft, has affected banks, shops, trains, planes and hospitals around the globe, with it being estimated the blunder could cost the economy trillions.

IT experts were working throughout the night to bring healthcare, financial and travel companies' computer systems back online after the faulty update Friday morning.

NHS computers that relied on the software were made redundant until the issue was identified, meaning chaos with prescription collections which could still be felt in the days to come.

Crowdstrike IT outage: Patients face disruption with prescriptions

 

[hollydolly]

The perils of a cashless society were exposed yesterday as a technology blunder triggered 'the world's biggest IT meltdown'.

In what was dubbed a 'digital pandemic', a glitch in a software update sparked global chaos as computers crashed in shops, banks and hospitals.

Train ticket machines seized up, GP surgeries were forced to cancel appointments and planes were grounded in multiple countries.

Waitrose and Morrisons were among the supermarkets unable to take card payments for a time – meaning customers who no longer carry cash could not buy food.

Critics said the havoc showed the dangers of a cashless world, with almost half of Britons now leaving the house with only their phones as a means of payment.

Among the chaos yesterday:

• Millions of patients were unable to book GP appointments;
• One hospital declared a 'critical incident' as it was forced to cancel cancer treatments;
• Departure boards went blank at airports including Heathrow, Gatwick and Edinburgh on the busiest day for UK air travel since 2019;
• Stock markets slid in London, New York, Paris and Frankfurt;
• Sky News and CBBC were among broadcasters knocked offline;
• Emergency 911 phonelines went down in several US states while shops in Australia were forced to shut early;
• Security systems at the Paris Olympics froze – just one week before the opening ceremony;
• Business leaders warned wages could be delayed by payroll system problems.

Other firms affected included McDonalds, Barclays and British Airways. The Mercedes F1 team also said it was working to fix any issues ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix.
Global IT meltdown show perils of cashless society

 

[VintageBetter]

I am now considering if I should get another Apple computer/laptop rather than Windows. I hate all the bloatware that is usually pre-installed and the constant updates on Windows. Do you use any sort of anti virus software on your iMac?

Yes, there are several brands of virus and malware protections for Macs. Just start searching for some. Avoid anything by Kaspersky. Gov’t has banned selling it here. Russian ties. Consumers can still download it but just don’t. So many better products out there.

Start getting the Kim Komando newsletter. She helps people with lots of tips on safety. The Current - Kim Komando's free newsletter

 

[VintageBetter]

The perils of a cashless society were exposed yesterday as a technology blunder triggered 'the world's biggest IT meltdown'.

In what was dubbed a 'digital pandemic', a glitch in a software update sparked global chaos as computers crashed in shops, banks and hospitals.

Train ticket machines seized up, GP surgeries were forced to cancel appointments and planes were grounded in multiple countries.

Waitrose and Morrisons were among the supermarkets unable to take card payments for a time – meaning customers who no longer carry cash could not buy food.

Critics said the havoc showed the dangers of a cashless world, with almost half of Britons now leaving the house with only their phones as a means of payment.

Among the chaos yesterday:

• Millions of patients were unable to book GP appointments;
• One hospital declared a 'critical incident' as it was forced to cancel cancer treatments;
• Departure boards went blank at airports including Heathrow, Gatwick and Edinburgh on the busiest day for UK air travel since 2019;
• Stock markets slid in London, New York, Paris and Frankfurt;
• Sky News and CBBC were among broadcasters knocked offline;
• Emergency 911 phonelines went down in several US states while shops in Australia were forced to shut early;
• Security systems at the Paris Olympics froze – just one week before the opening ceremony;
• Business leaders warned wages could be delayed by payroll system problems.

Other firms affected included McDonalds, Barclays and British Airways. The Mercedes F1 team also said it was working to fix any issues ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix.
Global IT meltdown show perils of cashless society

I’m throwing “cashless society” in the trash along with “self-driving cars”. When the darn map apps can actually lead you to the correct place 100% of the time for a year at 100 drives a day, then I might be able to think about truly safe “self-driving cars”. Until then, they are just a party trick.

So many things American society really needs. Why do the wealthy focus on crap like this?

 

[Trish]

I’m throwing “cashless society” in the trash along with “self-driving cars”. When the darn map apps can actually lead you to the correct place 100% of the time for a year at 100 drives a day, then I might be able to think about truly safe “self-driving cars”. Until then, they are just a party trick.

So many things American society really needs. Why do the wealthy focus on crap like this?

Me too

Popped down to the supermarket earlier and the lady on the check-out till was talking about how many customers they had to turn away yesterday because the systems were down and very few customers had cash. I don't mind card payments, it saves having to carry lots of cash but, I would never rely on it.

 

[AnneTeak]

Maybe it was a test to see if we can fight back when AI (Artificial Intelligence) takes over and rules the world. We are creating a monster.

 

[ProTruckDriver]

I am now considering if I should get another Apple computer/laptop rather than Windows. I hate all the bloatware that is usually pre-installed and the constant updates on Windows. Do you use any sort of anti virus software on your iMac?

You can see what some of the software I'm running here:
What is your security setup these days?

Mac OS has it's own built in anti-virus... and don't need any other. Having said that I have Eset Cyber Security Pro installed. It's Expensive and now only has basic coverage so I'm thinking of uninstalling it

There are sales almost every day on computer software the "Thankful" the Saving Monitor posts. I get most of my software from newegg. I'm good with Malwarebytes for Mac for a few years.
Newegg.com AV Specials

 

[hollydolly]

Maybe it was a test to see if we can fight back when AI (Artificial Intelligence) takes over and rules the world. We are creating a monster.

it did cross my mind.. but I don't think so...

 

[Brookswood]

No problems at my end. I just withdrew $10,000 from my neighbor‘s investment account to pay for my new backyard landscaping. Go CloudStrike.

 

[KSav]

No problems here

No problems here (i.e., in my local region), either. I feel for those who had to travel and/or get to medical appointments, etc. Sounds like everything was an enormous hassle.

 

[Murrmurr]

I found this by searchin.

It’s important to note that airline communications are not solely dependent on Microsoft satellite technology. Airlines use a combination of various communication systems, including satellite-based and ground-based technologies, to ensure reliable and efficient communication during flights. Recently, there was a global cyber outage affecting major U.S. carriers, including American Airlines, which led to ground stops due to communication issues3. However, this outage was not specific to Microsoft satellite technology but rather a broader disruption affecting multiple airlines. Overall, while Microsoft’s cloud services contribute significantly to airline operations, the industry relies on a diverse range of communication technologies to ensure safe and seamless travel.

Personally, during a major coms outage, even if it only effected ATC, which it did not, I wouldn't want to fly on a commercial airliner, neither a newer one, nor an older one fitted with new technology. It's too risky...for the crew as well.

I get why people were frustrated, not many of them know the risks, but canceling flights was the right move.

 

[Paco Dennis]

I wonder if any self-driving vehicles were effected!

 

[KSav]

Planes themselves are basically flying computers. Planes keep pilots informed about storms, other aircraft in their path, onboard fires, engine malfunctions, "you're about to hit a mountain", etc. There's also auto-pilot and landing vectors and communications with air traffic control.

Losing those features can potentially, or even most definitely, result in a perilous flight. That's the reason for the delays and cancellations.

@Murrmurr, your post reminds me of the Air France Flight 447 crash: Air France Flight 447 - Wikipedia

 

[oldman]

All of these posts about airlines being dependent on Microsoft browsers and technology can severely effect flying has me confused. I flew for United for 33 years and I have seen and heard a lot. I have sat in on many training classes and did my time in simulators. I retired as a Senior Captain, but I can’t tell you that every flight was uneventful. Truthfully, some of what has been written has confused me and has been contradictory towards what has been taught to me by United and several companies that built parts for manufacturing our aircraft.

I am not going to go line by line and write what I have been trained and taught, but remember this. If you are in the air flying in a plane and are between cities and Microsoft suddenly shuts down, there won’t be any need for you to panic. Your plane is not going to crash. You are safe whether Microsoft is up and running or not. You will land unharmed.

And finally, transceivers on planes use a radio rather than the internet, and GPS doesn't need the internet, either. That’s as far as I will go.

 

[MarkinPhx]

I wonder if any self-driving vehicles were effected!

My Waymo app is working so apparently not.

 

[Murrmurr]

@Murrmurr, your post reminds me of the Air France Flight 447 crash: Air France Flight 447 - Wikipedia

"The crew reacted incorrectly to the stall...the pilots failed to correct" probably because they thought the plane would correct itself. They can do that. And that was back in 2009. Today it's more obvious when autopilot isn't functioning properly.

You know how newer cars literally talk to the driver? Newer planes talk to pilots when something's going wrong or there's something they need to pay attention to. A red light still comes on, too, in case the voice alert is disabled.

 

[oldman]

From watching this guy, a 747 cargo and commercial pilot:

www.youtube.com/@74gear

I had to laugh when I saw Kelsey made the video. He must have a 100 videos on YouTube. Sometimes Kelsey is misunderstood or he doesn’t make himself clear. Kelsey is a nice guy and fun to be around. He can make the sourest puss around laugh. He’s a great joke teller and I sincerely like him. I wasn’t aware that he was flying freight. The last I knew he was flying passengers.

I never flew freight, so I can’t comment accurately if there are any differences between freighters or passenger jets. And now that the 747 has been removed from service, I don’t know where to look for information. Some foreign airlines still fly them, but none in the U.S. that I am aware of.

 

[Murrmurr]

All of these posts about airlines being dependent on Microsoft browsers and technology can severely effect flying has me confused. I flew for United for 33 years and I have seen and heard a lot. I have sat in on many training classes and did my time in simulators. I retired as a Senior Captain, but I can’t tell you that every flight was uneventful. Truthfully, some of what has been written has confused me and has been contradictory towards what has been taught to me by United and several companies that built parts for manufacturing our aircraft.

I am not going to go line by line and write what I have been trained and taught, but remember this. If you are in the air flying in a plane and are between cities and Microsoft suddenly shuts down, there won’t be any need for you to panic. Your plane is not going to crash. You are safe whether Microsoft is up and running or not. You will land unharmed.

And finally, transceivers on planes use a radio rather than the internet, and GPS doesn't need the internet, either. That’s as far as I will go.

To be clear, I didn't say planes depend on Microsoft. I said they depend on satellites. I assume various airlines get their software from various producers...but I don't know anything specific about that.

 

[Murrmurr]

I had to laugh when I saw Kelsey made the video. He must have a 100 videos on YouTube. Sometimes Kelsey is misunderstood or he doesn’t make himself clear. Kelsey is a nice guy and fun to be around. He can make the sourest puss around laugh. He’s a great joke teller and I sincerely like him. I wasn’t aware that he was flying freight. The last I knew he was flying passengers.

I never flew freight, so I can’t comment accurately if there are any differences between freighters or passenger jets. And now that the 747 has been removed from service, I don’t know where to look for information. Some foreign airlines still fly them, but none in the U.S. that I am aware of.

Kelsey has talked about the differences, and showed them.

Yeah, I really like his channel. I think he said he mostly flies 77s now...and yeah, mostly freight and sometimes freight plus passengers, and he's also occasionally assigned as back-up pilot on passenger flights. He says he sleeps through as many of those as he can.

 

[oldman]

"The crew reacted incorrectly to the stall...the pilots failed to correct" probably because they thought the plane would correct itself. They can do that. And that was back in 2009. Today it's more obvious when autopilot isn't functioning properly.

You know how newer cars literally talk to the driver? Newer planes talk to pilots when something's going wrong or there's something they need to pay attention to. A red light still comes on, too, in case the voice alert is disabled.

When airplanes talk to pilots to give alerts, they are referred to as aural warnings. The pilot gets them on TCAS, GPWS, etc. We get several aural warnings. Some are speaking, others are bells and whistles as they say. We even have a warning if the plane is not configured properly for takeoff, we get a horn beeping at us and the pilot is to immediately abort the takeoff. Usually it’s the flaps were not extended property for takeoff.

 

[oldman]

Kelsey has talked about the differences, and showed them.

Yeah, I really like his channel. I think he said he mostly flies 77s now...and yeah, mostly freight and sometimes freight plus passengers, and he's also occasionally assigned as back-up pilot on passenger flights. He says he sleeps through as many of those as he can.

You meant “777” or what we call the Triple Seven. The Triple Seven took the place of the 747. It’s a very popular plane and a big money maker for Boeing.

You ever see Kelsey in an airport don’t be shy around him. Walk up to him and say hi and tell him how much you enjoy his videos. His only issue is that he is a little egotistical, but I can overlook that. He’s a great guy and will help you out when needed.

 

[Murrmurr]

When airplanes talk to pilots to give alerts, they are referred to as aural warnings. The pilot gets them on TCAS, GPWS, etc. We get several aural warnings. Some are speaking, others are bells and whistles as they say. We even have a warning if the plane is not configured properly for takeoff, we get a horn beeping at us and the pilot is to immediately abort the takeoff. Usually it’s the flaps were not extended property for takeoff.

I remember reading about a couple of major plane crashes where investigators retrieve the "black box" and, listening to actual recordings, they can hear the plane...the aural warnings saying things like "pull up! pull up!" and warning pilots they're about to hit the ground and things like that.

That's pretty chilling.

 

[Murrmurr]

You meant “777” or what we call the Triple Seven. The Triple Seven took the place of the 747. It’s a very popular plane and a big money maker for Boeing.

You ever see Kelsey in an airport don’t be shy around him. Walk up to him and say hi and tell him how much you enjoy his videos. His only issue is that he is a little egotistical, but I can overlook that. He’s a great guy and will help you out when needed.

He isn't shy about mentioning Pilot Ego on his channel. I will definitely say Hi if I ever run into him.