Microsoft outage causes disruption to banks, airlines, hospitals

A global internet outage is wreaking havoc on a number of systems on Friday.

Microsoft users are facing widespread outages, impacting banks, airlines, hospitals, and media outlets in some countries.

The disruption stems from an issue with cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike.

The CEO confirmed on social media this morning this is not a cyber attack, but rather an issue following a CrowdStrike update.

Microsoft says they are fixing issues with Microsoft 365, and are “continuing to treat this event with the highest possible priority.”

A website that tracks user-reported internet outages shows growing problems with Visa, Amazon, and some airlines.

In the United States, flights from several carriers are grounded. The FAA says they made this decision because of communication issues.

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Pearson Airport tells CHCH News they are impacted by this incident, but not every airline.

In a post on social media, Pearson confirmed flights continue to arrive and depart at the airport, with airlines like Air Canada, Sunwing, Flair and WestJet currently unaffected.

“We’re still seeing issues with major American airlines (Delta, American, United) as well as Porter Airlines,” Pearson airport said.

“If you’re travelling or picking up loved ones this morning, please check the flight status with your airline.”

The City of Burlington says it is unable to receive service requests online, and is encouraging those with urgent requests to call Service Burlington at 905-335-7777.

The outage is also impacting some hospitals, with the University Health Network saying “clinical activity is continuing as scheduled, but some patients may experience delays.”

St. Joe’s in Hamilton echoed UHN’s statement, saying “St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton (St. Joe’s) is experiencing issues with our information technology systems as a result of the global, external problem impacting all users of CrowdStrike software.”

Niagara Health is also reporting issues, saying virtual urgent care is currently unavailable.

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