# PHP flaw forces worldwide shutdown of websites

A flaw in PHP, a widely used programming language, led to websites around the world being shut down. The incident affected many sites relying on PHP and highlights the risks of widespread shared software infrastructure.

**Importance:** 4/5

## Sources

### Business
- [The Guardian Biz](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/oct/21/flaw-in-php-computer-language-leads-to-shutdown-of-websites-around-world) — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 18:20:30 GMT