Erie Insurance is currently grappling with a widespread network outage that has disrupted its operations, affecting customers across 12 states and Washington, D.C. The computer systems have been down since Sunday, June 8, preventing customers from filing claims, accessing online accounts, or connecting with customer service through traditional digital channels.
The company released a statement during the time, saying, “All available resources are working to assess the impact and resolve the issue as soon as possible.”
While the outage persists, the company has opened communication avenues, a report from Erie Time-News noted. Customers can reach one of Erie Insurance’s 13,000 agents with questions or concerns. Additionally, the company’s First Notice of Loss team is accessible by phone at 800-367-3743 for urgent claims, such as a tree falling on a roof or a car hitting a deer.
The outage comes at a time when digital capabilities have become increasingly vital to the insurance industry. Tim NeCastro, president and chief executive officer of Erie Insurance, noted in November 2023 that customers have grown accustomed to conducting more transactions electronically.
“The industry really has been responsive to that in terms of developing a lot more digital capabilities, allowing customers to have more self‑service capabilities, etc. It’s become part of the fabric of the relationship between us and our customers, really,” NeCastro said.
Erie Indemnity Co. recently reported a strong financial performance. In the most recent quarter, net income rose to $138.4 million, up from $124.6 million a year earlier. The company also saw its property/casualty group direct written premiums increase to $3.12 billion, compared to $2.74 billion in the previous year. Most operating entities of Erie Insurance Exchange hold a Best’s Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior), indicating a strong financial standing.
On Monday, shares of Erie Indemnity Co. (NASDAQ: ERIE) were trading at $354.73, marking a 4.56% decline from the previous close.
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