Microchip Flaw for Smartphones Worse than Expected

Recently updated on January 5th, 2018

It may be 2018, but this week has seen a fatal microchip flaw in billions of devices across the world. This flaw allows devices using a specific microchip to be hacked, specifically data and passwords. Initially, the problem seemed only to affect Intel processors, but it has become widespread. In 2017, a number of hacks rocked the Internet, such as hacks of major auditing firms in the US.

However, recent bugs called ‘Meltdown’ and ‘Spectre’ have revealed a far bigger hacking possibility. A microchip based on a chip designed by Arm Holdings and AMD is vulnerable to specific hacks on top of Intel. These microchips power almost every device, from desktop and laptop computers to smartphones and tablets.

Microchip Flaw can be Fixed

When the news first broke, many companies were scrambling to find out how to solve the problem. Unfortunately, the sheer number of possible hack methods has made things tricky. Companies like Google and Microsoft have released new ways to protect devices from hacking. Google offers tips to help users protect their browsers and smartphones. While Microsoft has released an ‘urgent’ patch for Windows 10, they are still working on protecting cloud services.

It’s not often that a hardware issue (physical technology) can be hacked in 2018. However, when it was revealed that these hacking programs had affected a microchip flaw, many experts were stunned. It’s not new for devices to have a flaw, like the iPhone 8’s facial recognition lock screen. Although these are usually software or app problems.

More Technology Could be Hacked

These quick fixes may not stop the microchip flaw from being abused, but Google’s guide to protecting your device makes it easier to protect. Sadly, fixes for the ‘Spectre’ virus are still being created, so you might have to wing it until then. Easy ways to protect your device include:

• Changing your password weekly, and not sharing it.
• Using secure websites on your browser like our recommended online casinos.
• Backing up important data onto multiple drives or secure clouds.

This should also be done for your accounts with online banking services or casinos. After all, your hard-earned money needs to be kept safe. Keep visiting NZ Casinos for updates on this story and other tech news.