Microsoft 365 experienced a global outage that disrupted email services across Kenya and 74 other countries. The disruption impacted banks, hospitals, and insurance companies, forcing them to use alternative communication channels such as WhatsApp, SMS, and call centers. Services began to recover as the issue was resolved.
In Kenya, the outage caused significant disruption to daily operations, with organizations relying on Microsoft 365 for critical communications. Businesses reported challenges in reaching clients and managing internal workflows. Some companies shifted to WhatsApp and SMS to maintain contact with customers and staff. The situation highlighted the reliance of many organizations on cloud-based email services.
In India, the outage coincided with Friday the 13th, a day often associated with superstitions. Corporate India adapted by using Microsoft Teams and WhatsApp as alternatives to Outlook. While some small and medium enterprises faced operational hiccups, many employees welcomed the inbox-free day and effectively used the weekend as an early break. The incident underscored the growing importance of backup communication strategies in the digital age.
