Last Updated:  Jan. 10 10:26am

NEW: Ask The Security Guy Video on Meltdown and Spectre

Computer researchers have recently found out that the processor chips in most modern computers and smartphones has/have a hardware bug. It's really a design flaw in the hardware that has been there for years.

This hardware bug allows malicious programs to potentially steal data that is being processed in your computer memory. Normally, applications are not able to do that because they are isolated from each other and the operating system. This hardware bug breaks that isolation.

 Check back for update to this article as new information becomes available.

What you can do

In the meantime, we need you to be extra vigilant, with security top of mind.

• Be on the lookout for updates to all of your devices and install them as they become available.
• Make sure to install software from trusted sources such as the Apple App Store (Macs and iPhones) and the Microsoft store (Windows 10 computers).
• Also be mindful of less reputable websites as they may claim to have patches for your device that are really malware. 

If you have questions regarding what updates to install, contact the IMT Support Desk.

What’s affected

• Apple has said that all iPhones, iPads and Mac computers are affected by two major flaws in computer chips.
• Google said its Android phones - which make up more than 80% of the global market - were protected if users had the latest security updates.
• Microsoft has already released fixes for many of its services.
• Windows users should be aware that third-party anti-virus software may need to be updated before applying operating system patches.

What is IMT doing about this

We are closely monitoring the situation and patching where appropriate and as patches become available.  This is going to take some time, some of the patches are not even available yet.

Currently Available Patches:

• MacOS High Sierra 10.13.2
• MacOS Sierra Security Update 2017-002
• MacOS El Capitan Security Update 2017-005 10.11.6
• Windows 10 version 1703 (Creators Update): KB4056891
• Windows 10 version 1607 (Anniversary Update): KB4056890
• Windows 10 version 1511 (November Update): KB4056888
• Windows 10 version 1709 (Fall Creators Update): KB4056892
• Windows 10 version 1507 (Initial Release): KB4056893
• Windows 7 and 8.1 are scheduled to receive an update on January 9th 2018

More information about Meltdown and Spectre

Website: https://meltdownattack.com/
Technical video: http://viewpure.com/zCH_pV90Fuc