AMD processors are the latest target of hackers. In a new statement by the company, a critical vulnerability was found in AMD Zen 2 architecture processors. It was stated that sensitive data of the systems affected by the vulnerability could be stolen. So which processors use Zen 2 architecture and what can you do?
Zenbleed vulnerability found for AMD Zen 2
The Zenbleed vulnerability identified by Google security researchers in May has been confirmed by AMD. It was stated that it was caused by a command used to increase the chip performance of Zen 2 architecture processors.
According to Google’s research, the vulnerability could lead to the leakage of encrypted data and passwords on AMD Zen 2 chips. Although it exposes as little as 30kb of data per second, it can cause data theft even in virtual machines.
The Zen 2 architecture is used by many popular Ryzen processors. These include the Ryzen 3000 series for desktop, the Ryzen 4000 and 5000 series for laptops, and Threadripper chips. All Zen 2 devices manufactured in the last few years are affected by this vulnerability.
AMD confirmed the existence of Zenbleed and shared an update that fixes the vulnerability. However, users will have to wait a while longer to apply the new package. Because the update is distributed via BIOS and device manufacturers need to share a BIOS update
AMD said users should install the update as soon as possible to minimize the risk of exploitation. It is currently unknown whether the vulnerability has led to a serious data leak.
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