On Friday, McDonald's experienced a technology outage around the world and patrons “didn't like” it.
“We understand that you experienced a technology outage that impacted our restaurants. This issue is currently being resolved,” McDonald's said in a statement provided to USA TODAY. “Thank you, our customers, for your patience. We would like to express our gratitude to you and apologize for any inconvenience caused by this matter.”
The Chicago-based company said the outage was not related to a cyberattack. At noon Friday, the company issued a statement blaming a third-party provider undergoing a configuration change. The problem occurred at McDonald's stores around the world, including in Bangkok, Milan and London, and people were able to order food again after the problem went away, according to the Associated Press.
Outage tracking website Downdetector shows the issue started around 1 a.m. ET in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia.
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Many people shared their reactions to the outage on social media, with some complaining about not being able to go to places that are open 24 hours a day.
“@McDonaldsUK, why are all my local McDonald's closed when I can order on the app this morning when they're supposed to be open 24 hours?!” one said. User posted on X.
Some people joke about the cause of the problem, saying, “Is it because of the McFlurry machine?” Did the vegetarians get their revenge? Was it because of world politics? (McDonald's has not commented on the cause of the outage.)
“Looks like McDonald's is experiencing a worldwide outage, does this mean the McFlurry machine is finally up and running?” one user said. I wrote to X.
Others started craving fast food just as it disappeared.
“I wasn't feeling Maccas until the news of the worldwide power outage came out. All I can think about now is Filet-O-Fish,” another wrote. User on XMcDonald's is Australia's nickname.
