IC Realtime COO and Founder Bob Odierna provided commentary to broadcast media following a widespread Verizon service outage that left thousands of customers without connectivity.
A widespread Verizon service outage left tens of thousands—possibly hundreds of thousands—of customers without cellular connectivity, preventing phone calls, text messages, and smartwatch communications for several hours. Many devices displayed “SOS” indicators, leaving families unable to reach one another and underscoring how deeply daily life depends on uninterrupted connectivity.
The disruption raised broader concerns about reliance on single-network systems, particularly in homes using cloud-dependent smart technology. During the Fox 5 NY broadcast, Bob Odierna, COO and Founder of IC Realtime, explained that outages like this often expose gaps in how smart homes and security systems are designed.
Odierna emphasized that many consumer-grade security products rely on a single internet connection, with video recording and system control handled entirely off-premises. When that connection fails, critical systems—including cameras, alarms, and access controls—can become temporarily unusable.
According to Odierna, professional security planning takes a layered approach. This includes combining hardwired internet connections with cellular backup for your surveillance, using multiple service providers to avoid dependence on a single carrier, and ensuring systems can continue operating during outages. He noted that redundancy is increasingly important as networks face constant pressure from software updates, malware, and infrastructure changes.
The outage also demonstrated how quickly uncertainty can escalate. Odierna described how connectivity failures often trigger immediate concern, as homeowners are unable to check cameras, monitor alarms, or confirm the safety of family members. IC Realtime, he noted, often sees a surge in inbound calls as soon as a major carrier experiences disruption.
Beyond connectivity, Odierna stressed the importance of backup power. Homes and businesses relying solely on commercial power risk losing security coverage during outages unless they have battery backups or generators.
While the exact cause of the Verizon outage remained unclear at the time of the broadcast, Odierna noted that even routine software updates can unintentionally trigger large-scale disruptions. He likened the experience to losing a basic necessity—something often taken for granted until it disappears.
As smart homes continue to adopt connected locks, cameras, and access systems, Odierna underscored the value of working with professional security consultants who can design systems resilient enough to remain functional during unexpected outages.