TECHNOLOGY
What is CrowdStrike? Microsoft Windows PCs crash causes problems for banks, airports and TV stations
A failed update from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike had led to technical failures around the world in sectors that heavily rely on Windows, such as banking, airlines, and telecommunications.
On Friday morning, a widespread technical problem affecting PCs operating on Microsoft Windows has upended business in sectors that rely on the software. The cause? CrowdStrike is a cybersecurity firm that works with Redmond in high-level companies such as banks (such as imagining), airports, and television stations. A failed update to CrowdStrike appears to have caused many computers used in critical infrastructure to get stuck in reboot loops or stop working altogether. This is not a cyber attack but a failure to implement a new security patch.
CrowdStrike and the problems it has caused to many infrastructures around the world that use Windows PCs
As we can see on DownDetector, there were reports of downed systems worldwide at around 3:20 AM ET on Friday, July 19, 2024. These problems have one element in common: they all use Microsoft infrastructure and services. The affected sectors cover a broad range, but the main three impacted are banking, air travel, and media.
The problems began in Australia and gradually spread to the rest of the world.
Although these inconveniences are indeed affecting millions, especially the passengers of the delayed flights, there is no need to fear catastrophic consequences. The origin of these failures is not a cyberattack but rather a CrowdStrike update, and once the team releases another update, the issues should be resolved. However, in the meantime, those relying on businesses using the software should be prepared to experience delays in receiving service.
What is Crowdstrike?
CrowdStrike is a cybersecurity company that collaborates closely with Microsoft, providing support for many of the systems used in industries that have been most impacted. The issue encountered by CrowdStrike users after the update is that their computers are getting stuck in a reboot loop that prevents them from starting up their information systems needed to conduct business. Unable to move past the recovery screen, some airlines will not allow any planes to take off as they systems they rely on cannot be accessed. Luckily, the technical failures occurred in the middle of the night and many are hoping that they will be resolved before they become a major headache for these airlines and their passengers.
The cybersecurity firm is aware of the problems caused, and in a note published early Friday morning, they warned that they had reverted this update, although the machines affected are still not operational.