AMD Leaves Older Chips Vulnerable: “Sinkclose” Patch Update Disappoints Users

Hot Take:

AMD, in a classic “we’ll fix it… eventually” move, is patching the latest chips while older models are left to fend for themselves. Good luck, Threadripper 1000 owners, you’ll need it!

Key Points:

• AMD releases patches for the “Sinkclose” security flaw but only for certain models.
• Ryzen 1000, 2000, and 3000 series and Threadripper 1000 and 2000 are excluded from the updates.
• The vulnerability affects AMD processors dating back to 2006.
• Sinkclose is more of a risk for large entities like governments than for the average user.
• Exploiting Sinkclose requires deep system access, making it a high-effort exploit.

Patch? More Like a Band-Aid!

AMD has finally started rolling out patches for its processors to address the dreaded “Sinkclose” vulnerability. However, this fix is like a Band-Aid on a broken leg for those rocking older models. Yes, if you’re a proud owner of a Ryzen 1000, 2000, 3000, or a Threadripper 1000 or 2000, you might want to start shopping for newer hardware. According to AMD, these processors are now basically vintage and aren’t getting any love in the form of security updates. It’s like watching the Titanic sink and only offering lifeboats to first-class passengers.

Vintage Models Need Not Apply

The processors that won’t receive patches are being categorized as “older products that are outside our software support window.” That’s corporate speak for “You’re on your own, buddy!” Newer models and embedded processors are getting patched, and if you squint hard enough, you might see AMD waving goodbye to the older models. It’s kind of like when your favorite band announces a tour, but they’re only playing new songs. Sure, the new stuff is great, but what about the classics?

Not Your Average Joe’s Problem

For the average user, the Sinkclose flaw is about as relevant as a rotary phone. The risk is much higher for governments and large organizations, which might have hackers lining up to exploit this vulnerability like it’s Black Friday. For those of us just trying to watch Netflix and avoid phishing emails, Sinkclose is more of a theoretical nuisance. It would require deep system access for someone to exploit it, so unless you’ve got state secrets on your laptop, you can sleep a little easier.

The Hacker’s Holy Grail

Despite being a high-effort exploit, researchers are still waving the red flag about Sinkclose. If someone did manage to take advantage of this flaw, they could run code in the chips’ System Management Mode, which is usually locked up tighter than a drum. Imagine a hacker running rampant through your system’s most protected areas like it’s an all-you-can-hack buffet. If exploited, this flaw could be disastrous, turning your processor into the wild west of cyber vulnerabilities.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the takeaway here? If you’ve got a newer AMD processor, you’re golden. The patches are rolling out, and you’re safe from the cyber boogeyman. But if you’re clinging to an older model, you might want to start looking at upgrades or be prepared to live on the edge. Either way, it’s clear that in the world of tech, even your trusty processor can become obsolete faster than you can say “Sinkclose.”