Prepare for cyber threats – Microsoft outage reinforces cybersecurity importance

TLDR:

• A global tech outage linked to CrowdStrike affected 29,000 customers across 170 countries, including major airlines.
• Cybersecurity expert Markus Rauschecker emphasized the importance of preparedness in the face of such disruptions.

Cybersecurity expert Markus Rauschecker highlighted the significance of a recent global tech outage linked to CrowdStrike that impacted 29,000 customers across 170 countries, including major airlines. The outage caused significant travel disruptions at BWI Marshall Airport, leading to grounded flights and stranded travelers expressing concern. Rauschecker emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating that organizations need to have a plan in place for such incidents, as disruptions can occur regardless of whether they result from a cyber attack or software update.

Rauschecker stressed the need for organizations to be proactive in their cybersecurity measures to mitigate the impact of future incidents. While the outage was not a deliberate cyberattack, it underscored the vulnerability of systems and the need for robust cybersecurity measures. In response to the outage, the Department of Transportation set up a database to provide information on airlines’ policies for major delays and cancellations.