Researchers say they’ve found serious security flaws in some AMD chips
The news: CTS-Labs, an Israeli cybersecurity firm, says it has found multiple flaws in AMD’s Ryzen and Epyc processors that could let hackers who’ve already compromised computers access secure portions of the processors to install malware or steal sensitive data like encryption keys. The 13 different vulnerabilities affect processors found in desktops, laptops, and servers.
The flaws: The researchers have published a list of the different flaws but have withheld some technical details that would let them be easily exploited. In a clear play for publicity, they gave AMD just 24 hours’ notice of their findings, compared with the typical 90-day notice period that most security researchers provide. AMD says it’s studying the findings and is committed to protecting its customers.
Spectre redux: Earlier this year, serious security flaws dubbed Spectre and Meltdown were found in Intel and ARM processors, as well as a smaller number of AMD processors. Fixes for these have slowed computers down. AMD is now facing another big security headache, with no immediate cure available.
Deep Dive
Computing
A chip design that changes everything: 10 Breakthrough Technologies 2023
Computer chip designs are expensive and hard to license. That’s all about to change thanks to the popular open standard known as RISC-V.
Modern data architectures fuel innovation
More diverse data estates require a new strategy—and the infrastructure to support it.
Chinese chips will keep powering your everyday life
The war over advanced semiconductor technology continues, but China will likely take a more important role in manufacturing legacy chips for common devices.
The computer scientist who hunts for costly bugs in crypto code
Programming errors on the blockchain can mean $100 million lost in the blink of an eye. Ronghui Gu and his company CertiK are trying to help.
Stay connected
Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.