Scenarios
Five ways the network can let you down, and what to do about each.
Each scenario walks through what stops working, what still works, what to do in the first 24 hours, and how to get through a full week. They overlap on purpose. If you prepare for one, you've covered a lot of the others.
Card networks down
Tap, chip, and phone wallets stop working at the register. Stores that stay open take cash only, often exact change.
Read the scenario
Internet and cell outage
Home internet is out and mobile data is weak or gone. Maps, messaging, banking apps, and news sites won't load.
Read the scenario
Power plus digital
A blackout knocks out payment terminals, Wi-Fi, elevators, refrigerators, and phone charging all at once.
Read the scenario
Automation cascade
A failure in automated software spreads across payment processors, logistics, and apps that all depend on it. This is a teaching scenario, not a prediction.
Read the scenario
Bank and ATM access
Your balance is fine, but the app is down, ATMs are empty or offline, and branches are busy or closed.
Read the scenario