A widespread Nets system failure on Saturday disrupted card payments across Denmark and other Nordic countries, leading to significant disruptions and even prompting threats against staff at the Great Belt Bridge. The breakdown, which lasted nearly three hours, caused considerable inconvenience and economic losses.

The Great Belt Bridge experienced major chaos as motorists without automatic payment methods, such as “bizz” or number plate registration, were unable to cross. This resulted in long queues in both directions and prompted some drivers to vandalize barriers at the toll booths. Sydsjællands and Lolland-Falsters Police condemned the behavior, reporting death threats against staff via social media and emphasizing that such actions would not resolve the issue.

The Nets breakdown also impacted Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, resulting in economic losses due to guests’ inability to use debit cards. The amusement park reported a loss of direct revenue, particularly from spontaneous purchases at bars and eateries. The disruption occurred during a Tom Jones concert, further inconveniencing visitors.

Nets’ press officer, Søren Winge, stated that the breakdown began around 7:30 p.m. and affected all card types. While some payments were still possible with either Dankort or credit card in certain cases, the problems extended beyond Denmark, impacting Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. The cause of the system failure remains under investigation.