Nationwide issues with credit card transactions in Germany following IT system malfunction.
It seems like several banks' customers are experiencing difficulties using their debit and credit cards for payments. This problem seems to stem from a technical glitch at an IT service provider, and it's impacting various types of transactions, including credit, debit, and even girocard transactions, according to the German Banking Industry Committee. This issue might affect cash transactions at supermarkets and ATM withdrawals. It's important to note that this issue isn't restricted to specific banks.
However, ATM cash withdrawals using girocards are functioning normally. In certain situations, direct debit payments might still be possible. Plus, card usage outside of the country is also affected.
The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has acknowledged the complications in card payments at several financial institutions. They have confirmed that they are in touch with the affected parties and relevant authorities.
No signs of cyberattack
Based on the current information, the source of the disruption appears to be problems within the IT service provider and associated providers. The German Banking Industry Committee, along with payment system operators and providers, are currently investigating the situation to pinpoint the root cause and extent of the issue. Everyone involved is working tirelessly to resolve the problem. There's no indication of a cyberattack at this point.
The German Banking Industry Committee is pushing for a prompt resolution of this issue by the affected service provider. The problematic service provider is First Data, a company belonging to the US conglomerate Fiserv. They have reported a technical issue with some processing services, and they're working around the clock to address it, promising to update their customers as soon as possible.
Despite the technical glitch affecting various types of transactions, such as credit and debit card payments, it's worth noting that some direct debit payments might still be possible. Additionally, this issue has extended to card usage outside of the country, affecting users worldwide.
