Major chipmakers have disclosed two significant chip flaws that leave nearly every modern computing device vulnerable to hackers.
One chip flaw, called Meltdown affects only Intel Corp chips and the other chip flaw, called Spectre affects nearly every computing device made in the last decade.
All Mac and iOS devices are affected by both Meltdown and Spectre. Spectre attacks can be run through code in web browsers.
However, the most recent operating security updates for Mac computers, Apple TVs, iPhones and iPads should mitigate a lot of the risk against the Meltdown attack. Benchmark tests suggest that there is a minor performance impact when applying these updates.
Apple has stated that they will release a patch for the Safari web browser on its iPhones, iPads and Macs within the coming days.
Whilst waiting for Apple to release the update, we advise the following actions are taken to minimise risk of hacking:
- Download Apple’s latest security updates once released
- Upgrade to the latest version of High Sierra, where appropriate (please check with Viewdata if unsure)
- Do not download from untrusted sources
- Ensure your anti-virus is up-to-date
For more information, please see follow this link from Apple: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208394
If you require further information or an Anti-virus solution please contact us on 020 8979 3000 or email
