OMG! the Internet Went Down, What You Can Do.

July 27, 2024 | Loss of Services

In the modern digital age, internet connectivity is the lifeline of countless services and operations. When this lifeline is disrupted, as seen in the recent global CrowdStrike incident that affected banks and supermarkets, the ripple effects can be profound. Customers found themselves unable to complete transactions, highlighting the unforeseen importance of having alternative solutions like cash. This incident offers a valuable lesson in preparedness for both individuals and businesses. Here’s what you can do to navigate an internet outage effectively.

Understanding the Impact

The CrowdStrike incident showcased how dependent we are on internet services. Banks, supermarkets, and various other sectors rely heavily on online connectivity for transactions, inventory management, and communication. An outage can lead to:

Inability to process card payments: Both credit and debit card transactions are halted, causing frustration for customers and potential loss of revenue for businesses.
ATM disruptions: Cash withdrawals and deposits become impossible, leaving customers without access to their funds.
Inventory management issues: Supermarkets and stores that use cloud-based systems for stock management may struggle to track inventory accurately.

Immediate Steps for You

Keep Cash on Hand: The outage demonstrated the importance of having a cash reserve. While we lean towards a cashless society, having a small amount of cash can be a lifesaver during such disruptions.
Use Alternative Payment Methods: Mobile payment solutions that work offline, like certain NFC-based payment apps, can be helpful. Ensure your digital wallet apps are updated and understand which ones offer offline capabilities.
Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like non-perishable food, bottled water, and medications. During an extended outage, this can help you avoid crowded stores and ensure you have the basics covered.
Stay Informed: Use battery-powered radios or offline news sources to stay updated on the situation. Social media can be useful but be wary of misinformation.

Steps for Businesses

Implement a Backup Payment System: Ensure you have a secondary payment processing system that can operate offline. This might include traditional cash registers or backup card readers that don’t require internet connectivity.
Maintain a Cash Reserve: Just like individuals, businesses should keep a cash reserve to handle transactions and provide change during outages. This ensures continuity of service and customer satisfaction.
Communicate with Customers: Keep customers informed about the situation and any changes in service. Clear communication can help manage expectations and reduce frustration.
Review and Strengthen IT Infrastructure: Conduct regular reviews of your IT systems and identify any single points of failure. Investing in more robust and resilient infrastructure can mitigate the impact of future outages.

Long-term Considerations

The CrowdStrike incident serves as a stark reminder of our vulnerability to cyber disruptions. Long-term strategies should include:

Investing in Cybersecurity: Enhance your cybersecurity measures to prevent attacks that could lead to outages. Regular audits and updates are essential.
Diversifying Services: Avoid over-reliance on a single service provider. Having multiple options can provide a safety net during disruptions.
Community Preparedness: Collaborate with local businesses and community groups to develop a collective response plan. Shared resources and knowledge can be invaluable during a crisis.

Conclusion

The global CrowdStrike incident underscored the critical need for preparedness in the face of internet outages. By taking proactive steps, both individuals and businesses can mitigate the impact of such disruptions. Keeping cash on hand, implementing backup systems, and strengthening IT infrastructure are key strategies to ensure resilience in an increasingly digital world. This experience not only proves the value of cash but also highlights the importance of adaptability and foresight in our daily operations.

And remember:

ThinkSafe - ActSafe - HomeSafe

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