Update causes global IT outages

Today we have seen how a faulty update from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike caused widespread IT outages globally, impacting banks, airlines, and various businesses. The issue was not a cyberattack but a problematic software patch that led to numerous systems crashing with the “blue screen of death.” CrowdStrike quickly addressed the problem, but the incident highlights the potential risks associated with software updates.

Similar incidents have occurred in the past, notably with McAfee and Sophos. In 2010, a McAfee update caused Windows XP machines to crash by incorrectly identifying a critical system file as malware, leading to widespread operational disruptions. Sophos faced a similar issue in 2012 when an update misidentified key system files as malicious, resulting in system crashes and significant downtime for users.

These incidents underscore the importance of rigorous testing and contingency planning in the deployment of software updates to prevent such widespread disruptions. Companies are urged to review their patch management strategies and ensure robust backup plans are in place to mitigate the impact of such issues in the future. It is no longer just acceptable to trust that your vendors are doing this on your behalf.

We can help you navigate the processes and procedures you need to have in place to protect your network from these types of outages.