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  • Writer's pictureBurton Kelso, Tech Expert

How to Protect your Computers and Devices against the ZombieLoad attack



The Zombie apocalypse has been upon us since 2011! If you're thinking about those mindless hoards of people walking or running across the landscape searching for brains, you're thinking about the wrong type of Zombies. Last year, it was discovered that all Intel processors (which happen to be the brains of your computers and smart devices) have a flaw in them that can potentially allow a hacker to 'Zombify' your devices. This flaw means all Windows computers, MacBooks, and many Chromebooks with processors installed from 2011 can allow criminals to steal data like passwords, your private browsing history, and other information directly from your processor. If your device has an AMD, you are not affected. So what's the big deal about Zombieload and what should you do about it? Read on and I will fill you in.

What the heck is ZombieLoad? ZombieLoad is part of a series of flaws that take advantage of a computer process, known as speculative execution. This process allows processors allows your computer to run faster, but the the speed increase opens holes in your processor that can allow cyber criminals to slip into your devices to see and steal the data in from your apps and programs.

Can I tell if I'm Affected?If you have a Windows computer, a Macintosh computer, or a tablet that uses an Intel processor and you purchased it after 2011, you are vulnerable. Don't waste time rushing out to purchase the latest anti-virus software because it won