A recent technical failure in the Nets payment system and the resulting chaos at the Great Belt Bridge are prompting serious concerns about Denmark’s resilience to cyberattacks and the handling of critical infrastructure. The incident is being viewed as a wake-up call, exposing significant shortcomings in both Nets and Sund & Bælt’s preparedness.

The breakdown, which caused a two-and-a-half-hour outage, is considered unacceptably long, raising questions about Nets’ ability to manage such situations. The company, holding a virtual monopoly on payments in Denmark, is facing scrutiny from the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority and politicians, who are demanding answers about future preventative measures and the development of alternative payment solutions. There is a growing consensus that the country should reduce its dependence on a single provider like Nets.

The situation at the Great Belt Bridge was further exacerbated by Sund & Bælt’s apparent lack of contingency plans for payment system failures. The company’s initial response involved leaving customers stranded, leading to desperate measures by travelers who forced open the barriers. This response has drawn heavy criticism, with accusations of prioritizing rules and revenue over the well-being of travelers, including families with tired children.

Sund & Bælt’s subsequent communication, characterized as downplaying and buck-passing, has only fueled public outrage. The company’s chairman is also under pressure to address the company’s failures. While the company eventually implemented a procedure to open barriers after 15 minutes of queuing, questions remain about the lack of prior planning and the competence of those in charge.

Calls are growing for accountability, including potential cancellation of bonuses for management and communication staff, and a reassessment of leadership. Furthermore, the incident has reignited the debate about the necessity of maintaining toll charges on the Great Belt Bridge, given that it is already paid for.

The breakdown has also highlighted the importance of retaining cash as a viable payment alternative. Despite the convenience of digital payments, the incident underscores the vulnerability of relying solely on electronic systems and the need for individuals to keep cash on hand for emergencies. The event serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of cyberattacks and the critical need for robust contingency planning and resilient infrastructure.