Network Rail is experiencing widespread IT issues that are affecting its entire network, including key lines in London. This global IT problem is impacting multiple companies and industries, causing significant disruptions.
As a result, some train operators cannot access driver diagrams at certain locations, leading to potential short-notice train cancellations. Other key systems, including real-time customer information platforms, are also affected.
Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) – which operates Southern, Thameslink, Gatwick Express, and Great Northern – has warned passengers to expect delays due to the issue. A spokesperson for GTR said: “We are currently experiencing widespread IT issues across our entire network. Our IT teams are actively investigating to determine the root cause of the problem. We are unable to access driver diagrams at certain locations, leading to potential short-notice cancellations, particularly on the Thameslink and Great Northern networks.”
Due to the outage, customers can use tickets at no extra cost on the following services:
- South Western Railway & Southeastern services on any reasonable route
- Underground services on any reasonable route across London
- TfL buses across London including towards Sevenoaks
- LNER services between Kings Cross, Stevenage, and Peterborough
- Greater Anglia between Liverpool Street and Hertford East
- DLR across all routes
- Southern, Thameslink, and Great Northern services
The major IT outage has hit businesses and institutions worldwide, reportedly caused by a faulty update to cybersecurity software. Key infrastructures like airlines, train companies, banks, and media outlets are affected, with many systems going offline or showing the “Blue Screen of Death” (BSOD).
In England, GP surgeries are unable to book appointments or access patient records due to their EMIS Web system being down. The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) reported that community pharmacies are also disrupted, affecting prescription access and medicine deliveries.
Globally, banks, supermarkets, and other major institutions are facing computer issues, disrupting services and preventing many businesses from processing digital payments.
