The operator of the oil platforms was aware of the SQL vunerability and was actively pushing patches out to HMIs and database servers located on the platforms. In many cases the patches had been installed but the systems had not been rebooted due to a lack of qualified IT personnel on the platform. The company was in the process of helicoptering IT support staff to each of the platforms to supervise the reboot of the systems when the Slammer outbreak occurred.

Loss of control system view and data collection.