DNS problems at Apple have knocked the iTunes Store and the iOS and OS X App Stores offline today, preventing users from downloading new apps, app updates, or media from iTunes. Apple confirmed the source of the issue in a statement to CNBC.

"We apologize to our customers experiencing problems with iTunes and other services this morning," the statement reads. "The cause was an internal DNS error at Apple. We're working to make all of the services available to customers as soon as possible, and we thank everyone for their patience."

Trying to sign in on a Mac results in the angry red STATUS_CODE_ERROR message seen in the screenshot above. On iOS, you'll just be prompted to input your password over and over again, the same behavior you'd see if you were entering an incorrect password for your Apple ID.

According to Apple's system status page, the App Store has been inaccessible since 5am Eastern today. iCloud mail and iCloud sign-in services were also affected, but those problems were cleared up by 9am. Keep an eye on that page for updates about the ongoing store outages.

Update: According to Apple's status page, the iTunes and App Store problems cleared up just after 4pm Eastern today. Individuals may still experience hiccups, but we're able to authenticate and install apps and updates again.