CPU-Targeting Malware: The Brain Freeze Hackers Are Banking On
Hackers are upping their game with CPU-targeting malware, infecting the very “brain” of computers. Even swapping out hardware like hard drives or motherboards won’t shake this persistent pest. As cybercriminals evolve, cybersecurity pros must brace for this new phase of ransomware attacks, where even the toughest hardware won’t save you.
Hot Take:
Just when you thought ransomware couldn’t get any worse, it decided to upgrade its subscription and target CPUs. What’s next, malware that demands payment in the form of dad jokes? Time to rethink cybersecurity, folks, because hackers are playing 4D chess while we’re still trying to figure out checkers!
Key Points:
- New ransomware targets the CPU, making it extremely hard to remove even with hardware replacements.
- Inspired by a bug in AMD’s Zen processor architecture, it manipulates CPU microcodes.
- Techniques for this malware were discussed in leaked chats from Russian ransomware groups.
- UEFI firmware-based rootkits like Cosmic Strand pose a similar threat.
- Cybersecurity experts need to innovate to tackle these emerging threats.
Already a member? Log in here