Microsoft Update Flaw Causes Global Disruption

Source- This post on the Microsoft Update Flaw Causes Global Disruption has been created based on the article “Microsoft update flaw triggers worldwide chaos” published in “The Hindu” on 20 July 2024.

A faulty update from CrowdStrike which is a Texas-based cybersecurity firm disrupted several Windows computers and servers worldwide. Digital systems in aviation, banking, telecommunications, hospitals, and TV channels were affected. The update caused a boot loop and a blue screen of death.

Impact on various sectors

1. Aviation Sector: The faulty update led to significant delays and cancellations of flights worldwide. Airlines had to resort to manual check-in processes and handwritten boarding passes due to digital system failures.

2. eOffice Suite Disruption: The Union government’s eOffice suite, used for processing files and paperwork, was impacted for two hours. This caused temporary disruptions in government operations.

3. Automotive Sector: Maruti Suzuki India Ltd had to briefly halt its production and dispatch operations due to the faulty update. The company managed to resolve the issue internally and resume normal operations.

4. Healthcare Systems: Hospitals using Windows-based systems likely faced challenges in accessing patient records, scheduling, and other critical functions, although specific details were not mentioned.

5. Telecommunications and Media: TV channels and telecommunications providers experienced outages, affecting broadcasting and communication services and leading to service interruptions for users.

6. Impact on Various Industries: The faulty update affected numerous other sectors, including banking, retail, and hospitality, causing disruptions in digital transactions, customer service, and supply chain management.

Recovery Efforts

i)  The faulty update has been withdrawn and issued has been fixed.

ii) IT administrators had to follow a manual four-step recovery process shared by the Indian Computer Emergency Team (CERT-in).

iii) Continuous communication with Microsoft and chief information security officers at critical infrastructure entities.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology