ATT, T-Mobile, and Verizon outage: What we know so far (2024)

The ATT, T-Mobile, and Verizon outage is ruining travelers holidays. Right now, travelers relying on AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon are facing a major challenge: an international roaming outage. This disruption, caused by problems with a key partner called Syniverse, is affecting their ability to make calls, send texts, and use data services while abroad.

As frustrated travelers share their experiences on social media, carriers and Syniverse are working hard to fix the issue. Here is what has been done so far.

AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon outage: What is happening right now?

The recent outage affecting AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon customers while traveling internationally stemmed from issues with a third-party vendor called Syniverse. Customers traveling abroad experienced disruptions in making calls, sending texts, and using cellular data services.

Syniverse is a company that provides services to mobile network operators, helping them manage and facilitate international roaming, messaging, and other telecommunications services across different networks globally. They play a crucial role in ensuring seamless connectivity for mobile users traveling internationally. They act as a bridge between various telecommunications networks to enable smooth communication and data services outside their home countries.

Customers expressed frustration on social media, sharing stories of being stranded without means to communicate or navigate in foreign countries. Some described the situation as “dangerous,” emphasizing the need for a quick solution. Public figures like actor Patrick Schwarzenegger also highlighted the issue, drawing attention to its widespread impact on travelers.

Does anyone else have @Verizon and overseas?? Everyone I’m with phone just fully stopped working… anyone else??

— Patrick Schwarzenegger (@PSchwarzenegger) June 27, 2024

How did carriers respond?

• T-Mobile: Acknowledged the problem as stemming from a third-party vendor issue affecting their international roaming service intermittently. They assured customers of active collaboration with Syniverse to resolve the outage promptly.
• AT&T: Confirmed disruptions for their mobile customers abroad, attributing the issue to problems outside their network. They are actively working with Syniverse to restore normal service.
• Verizon: Reported that around 30% of its customers were unable to make international calls due to the outage. They are engaged in efforts to restore full service and minimize customer inconvenience. You can contact them by clicking here.

Syniverse’s response

Syniverse acknowledged the problem and assured customers and carriers that they were working hard to fix the connectivity issues. They appreciated customers’ patience during this disruption and emphasized their commitment to restoring normal service as soon as possible.

What can you do now if you are affected?

During an outage affecting AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, there are several steps you can take to stay connected and manage the situation:

• Use Wi-Fi: Switch to Wi-Fi networks where available to access internet-based services like email, messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram), and social media.

• Use messaging apps: Use messaging apps that work over Wi-Fi or data services, such as WhatsApp, Signal, or Facebook Messenger, to communicate with others.
• Local SIM card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card if you’re staying in a country for an extended period. This allows you to use local networks for calls, texts, and data.
• Use VoIP services: Use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like Skype, Zoom, or Google Voice for making calls over Wi-Fi or data.
• Offline maps: Download offline maps before traveling to navigate without relying on real-time data.
• Contact support: Contact your carrier’s customer support through alternative means (online chat, social media) for updates and assistance.
• Stay informed: Follow official channels and news updates for information on when the outage is expected to be resolved.
• Alternative communication: Use email or social media to update family and friends about your situation if voice calls are not possible.

By taking these steps, you can mitigate the impact of the outage and stay connected during periods of disrupted mobile services.

A recap for the ATT, T-Mobile, and Verizon outage: The recent outage affecting AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon customers traveling internationally was caused by connectivity issues with Syniverse, a third-party vendor handling their international roaming services. This disruption prevented travelers from making calls, sending texts, or using data outside the United States. T-Mobile acknowledged the problem as intermittent, stemming from issues with their vendor, and assured customers of ongoing efforts to resolve it swiftly. AT&T and Verizon also confirmed disruptions, with Verizon reporting about 30% of its customers affected. Syniverse has been actively working with network partners to restore service, while affected customers have turned to social media to express frustration and seek updates.

All images are generated by Eray Eliaçık/Bing