BMO restores online, app service after false fire alarm leads to hours-long outage

A man uses the BMO mobile app. Photo: Shutterstock.

By Lucas Casaletto

Posted May 30, 2024 5:16 am.

Last Updated May 30, 2024 7:07 am.

The Bank of Montreal (BMO) says it has restored service to its online banking and mobile app after a false fire alarm at one of its data centres resulted in an hours-long outage for customers.

Users began reporting issues with the app and website on Wednesday night, with a BMO spokesperson responding to social media accounts on X, formerly known as Twitter, early on Thursday.

“Heads up: You may not be able to access online banking right now because of a technical problem,” they wrote on X. “We’re working on the issue and will get things back to normal as soon as we can. Thanks for your patience.”

A BMO spokesperson tells CityNews that the service disruption was caused by someone pulling a fire alarm at one of the bank’s data centres.

In an update, BMO said its services were restored by 10 a.m., though some customers may experience delays in processing and posting transactions.

BMO can access banking services through their local BMO branch, BMO.com, or the BMO ATM network.

Submit a Correction
Accessibility Feedback

Top Stories

2 critical after 9-vehicle crash on HWY 99 in Surrey; highway remains closed

Highway 99 is closed in both directions due to a multi-vehicle accident that happened on Thursday evening just south of the Highway 91 overpass.

updated

2h ago

Incoming BC NDP director Dan Coulter dies after medical emergency

"It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the loss of Dan Coulter, a devoted advocate for the people of British Columbia, a passionate voice for inclusivity and justice, and a cherished member of the BC NDP family," party officials shared.

12m ago

Vancouver city councillors call for more assurances for renters displaced in Broadway Plan

Vancouver councillors have directed staff to look into added tenant protections, as most agreed that further safety nets for current renters in the area might be called for.

1h ago

Workers in charge of delivering jet fuel to YVR have walked off the job

The workers responsible for getting jet fuel to Vancouver International Airport say they have walked off the job as of 6 p.m. Thursday.

9h ago

Top Stories

2 critical after 9-vehicle crash on HWY 99 in Surrey; highway remains closed

Highway 99 is closed in both directions due to a multi-vehicle accident that happened on Thursday evening just south of the Highway 91 overpass.

updated

2h ago

Incoming BC NDP director Dan Coulter dies after medical emergency

"It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the loss of Dan Coulter, a devoted advocate for the people of British Columbia, a passionate voice for inclusivity and justice, and a cherished member of the BC NDP family," party officials shared.

12m ago

Vancouver city councillors call for more assurances for renters displaced in Broadway Plan

Vancouver councillors have directed staff to look into added tenant protections, as most agreed that further safety nets for current renters in the area might be called for.

1h ago

Workers in charge of delivering jet fuel to YVR have walked off the job

The workers responsible for getting jet fuel to Vancouver International Airport say they have walked off the job as of 6 p.m. Thursday.

9h ago

Most Watched Today

1:33
Stuck squirrel wins Comedy Wildlife Photography Award

An image of a squirrel stuck in a tree is the overall winner of this year’s Nikon Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards. Melanie Ng and Faiza Amin look at some of top pictures.

19h ago

2:28
Canada Post rejects union concessions

The postal union has made concessions on wages & working conditions, but Canada Post has rejected them out of hand. CUPW says it wasn't easy to agree to smaller wage increases, but the Crown Corporation says they're still not enough.

18h ago

1:29
Thousands flee fierce Malibu fire

Some of Hollywood's most famous are among those being forced to flee a wildfire in Malibu. Amy Kiley looks at the efforts to get the blaze under control.

21h ago

2:33
North Vancouver Airbnb hosts get special shoutout from Taylor Swift fans

A pair of Airbnb hosts in North Vancouver are getting recognized for making two Swifties' stay in Vancouver extra special. Cecilia Hua reports.

22h ago

1:48
New entertainment hub opening in downtown Vancouver

A massive new entertainment complex is opening in downtown Vancouver. As Joe Sadwoski reports, the Rec Room is aiming to help revitalize the Granville strip.
More Videos