Sky News suffered a major blackout in the UK on Friday morning amid global tech issues linked to Microsoft systems.
The Comcast-owned news channel was off air for some time, while other international channels have also suffered issues, including Sky News Australia, which is unconnected to the UK station. Airlines, banks, and train operators have also been impacted.
Microsoft has said that it is investigating issues that have prevented users from accessing apps and services. CrowdStrike, a major cybersecurity company, reportedly issued an antivirus update that has potentially created the issues for Microsoft systems.
Sky News viewers were greeted by the message: “We apologize for the interruption to this broadcast. We hope to restore the transmission of Sky News shortly.”
A spokesperson added: “Sky News has not been able to broadcast live TV this morning, we apologise for the interruption. All the news is still available online, on the Sky News app, website, and across our social media accounts. We are working hard to restore all services.”
Presenters have also noted the issues: Jacquie Beltrao tweeted a crossed fingers emoji.
A Sky News Australia reporter talked viewers through the issues, walking around a studio with dead screens.
This story is updating
