Researchers have found a set of security flaws in processors from Intel and AMD that could let hackers steal sensitive information from millions of devices.
According to a report released Wednesday (January 3), the two bugs affect everything from laptops and tablets to smartphones and even internet servers from the last decade.
It has left developers scrambling to find fixes and experts say the impact will vary from product to product.
The bugs, dubbed Meltdown and Spectre, both allow hackers to bypass or trick applications to get passwords or secret information.
Intel says it’s been testing patches that will be pushed out next week but reports say the updates to fix the problems might also cause Intel chips to run up to 30% more slowly.
Experts are warning businesses to move quickly and update any vulnerable systems, as hackers are expected to develop code they can use to exploit the bugs.
At this point it’s not clear whether Intel will face any financial liability arising from one of the reported flaws.
