Cashless Society at Risk as Global IT Breakdown Highlights Concerns, Activists Assert

Advocates express concern over IT failure's demonstration of risks in transitioning to a society devoid of physical currency following recent disruptions across multiple sectors due to Microsoft systems malfunction.

Retail establishments such as grocery stores, financial institutions, eateries, transit hubs and aerodromes were significantly affected when the IT glitch occurred last Friday, impeding their capacity for digital transactions. The ramifications were particularly pronounced among enterprises that exclusively accept electronic forms of payment.

The Payment Choice Coalition (PCC), an entity opposing a cashless transition, enumerates 23 corporations and institutions which primarily utilize plastic currency methods for transactions.

"Systems outages are inevitable," commented Ron Delnevo, PCC's chair. "However, the absence of alternatives could lead to considerable disruption."

Despite a surge in cash usage during 2021 – its first uptick since 2011 – according to UK Finance data from banks and financial services, there has been a subsequent decrease as per recent figures. Yet, UK Finance maintains that "cash retains an essential role."

The GMB Union stated the IT interruption underscored long-held beliefs about cash's crucial contribution to community functioning. The absence of cash can leave individuals without backup options for managing day-to-day tasks, according to the union.

Recent weeks have witnessed isolated incidents affecting retail operations due to payment processing issues; for instance, in March, McDonald's and several supermarket chains experienced systemic problems with their transaction systems. However, all these outlets also accept cash payments.

The PCC suggests a legislative mandate requiring businesses to accommodate cash transactions as an alternative solution. Martin Quinn of the organization emphasizes the value that physical currency offers in terms of privacy and budget management.