911 down due to cyberattack? Theories emerge after massive power outage in Massachusetts

Updated on June 19, 2024, 01:32 IST

A statewide 911 emergency service outage in Massachusetts on Tuesday evening prompted internet users to discuss a possible cyberattack that could be behind the emergency call center’s outage.

There is no official confirmation of a cyberattack on 911.

The statewide 911 outage in Massachusetts on Tuesday night prompted internet users to discuss a possible cyberattack as the cause of the 911 outage. Several people online claimed that it was an “initial” cyberattack that also caused service disruptions in neighboring states of New York and Rhode Island. However, state police issued a brief statement saying that the 911 outage was due to a “technical issue” but that no attack was possible.

Among the user reactions that surfaced on social media, one user on X (formerly known as Twitter) wrote: “Could this be the start of a cyberattack @CNN @MSNBC? #TheLivingGod”

“Yes, a cyber attack seems possible,” added another.

In particular, there is no official confirmation that the ongoing outage is linked to a cyberattack. It should be added that the emergency alert about 911 failure in Massachusetts was accidentally shared with other states. According to the Department of Public Safety, FEMA launched an investigation into the case.

“The state’s 911 department is experiencing a technical issue affecting PSAPs across the state,” the MSP previously said in a statement.

The Connecticut Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security also issued a clarification stating that there will be no outage of 911 service in the state.

“For clarification for those who received the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), Connecticut is NOT experiencing a 911 outage. The Wireless Emergency Alert you received was for Massachusetts. Please see the map for the affected area. #CT #MA #WEA,” it said. It was not clear when services would be restored.

A statewide 911 emergency service outage in Massachusetts on Tuesday evening prompted internet users to discuss a possible cyberattack that could be behind the emergency call center’s outage.

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