Websites go dark as AI exposes critical security flaws
Critical security vulnerabilities in the PHP programming language have forced government agencies and companies to take websites offline. Security firms warn that these flaws are among the most severe in software history, affecting a large portion of the internet.
Why it matters
The incident underscores the fragility of global digital infrastructure and the risks associated with widespread reliance on specific open-source programming languages.
Websites go dark as AI exposes critical security flaws left Only sites that run PHP on their own servers are exposed [File] REUTERS REUTERS https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/mgy1d8/article71609947.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/2025-11-18T165236Z_1314521899_RC2XAS9545MF_RTRMADP_3_USA-CHINA-HACKING.JPG Dado Ruvic FILE PHOTO: 3D printed models of people working on computers and padlock are seen in front of a displayed DATA LEAKING words and binary code in this picture illustration created onFebruary 1, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo PHP sits underneath popular web design platforms, so the weaknesses potentially affect a vast range of websites Government agencies and companies around the world shut down websites Wednesday after two critical flaws came to light involving PHP, a programming language that is the basis for a large share of the internet. PHP sits underneath popular web design platforms, so the weaknesses potentially affect a vast range of websites, from online stores and news outlets to government services.
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Global Websites Go Dark After AI Uncovers Critical Programming Language Flaws
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