How to Prevent Spectre and Meltdown CPU Flaw Attack

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. How to Prevent Spectre and Meltdown CPU Flaw Attack

Two major security issues that affected nearly all computers and many mobile devices was discovered in January 2018. The CPU vulnerabilities, called "Meltdown" and "Spectre", could allow rogue software or an attacker to access private information located in memory. This can include passwords, open browser tabs/windows, and programs that you may be using on your computer.

Fortunately, tech companies rushed to patch these vulnerabilities in Windows, Mac, Android and iOS. Your device should already be protected but there's a chance they may not be. We will help you to identify whether or not your laptop, desktop, smartphone or tablet is vulnerable. And if not, how to apply the appropriate update.

Spectre and Meltdown are critical security vulnerabilities that affect a wide range of processors, including those used in Windows PCs, Macs, iPhones, iPads, and Android devices. These flaws exploit vulnerabilities in modern processors to potentially allow attackers to access sensitive data. Addressing these vulnerabilities requires a combination of software updates and cautious computing practices. In this article, we'll explore how to prevent Spectre and Meltdown attacks on various devices.

For Windows Computers

1. Update Your Operating System

• Regular Updates: Ensure that your Windows OS is set to update automatically. Microsoft has released patches to help protect against Spectre and Meltdown.

2. Update Your Firmware

• BIOS/UEFI Update: Check your PC manufacturer's website for firmware updates. These updates often include protections against such vulnerabilities.

3. Update Your Browser

• Browser Security: Keep your web browsers updated. Browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge have released updates that mitigate these vulnerabilities.

4. Antivirus Software

• Stay Protected: Use reputable antivirus software and keep it updated. Some antivirus solutions have been updated to address these vulnerabilities.

For Mac Computers

1. macOS Updates

• Install Updates Promptly: Apple has released macOS updates that include mitigations for these vulnerabilities. Always install the latest macOS updates.

2. Safari Updates

• Web Browsing Safety: Ensure you're using the latest version of Safari, as Apple has released updates to mitigate these flaws.

3. General Caution

• Avoid Suspicious Links: Be cautious about downloading software or clicking links from unknown sources.

For iPhones and iPads

1. iOS Updates

• Update to Latest Version: Apple has included mitigations in the latest iOS versions. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to install any available updates.

2. App Store Apps

• Trustworthy Sources: Only download apps from the official App Store, as Apple vets apps for security vulnerabilities.

For Android Phones and Tablets

1. Android Security Updates

• Install Latest Security Patches: Regularly check for and install Android updates. Google has released patches specifically addressing Spectre and Meltdown.

2. App Downloads

• Use Google Play Store: Download apps only from the Google Play Store to reduce the risk of installing malicious software.

3. Manufacturer Updates

• Firmware Updates: Some Android device manufacturers release their own updates. Keep an eye out for any updates from your device's manufacturer.

General Best Practices

• Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest news on security vulnerabilities and ensure you understand how to keep your devices safe.
• Use Secure Networks: Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks. Consider using a VPN for added security.
• Password Security: Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and consider using a password manager.

Protecting your devices from Spectre and Meltdown involves staying vigilant about software updates and practicing safe computing habits. Regularly updating your operating system, firmware, and applications is the first line of defense against these and other vulnerabilities. Additionally, being cautious about the sources of your downloads and the security of your internet connections plays a crucial role in safeguarding your data. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these CPU flaw attacks.

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If you are still having trouble, refer to the Step-By-Step Guide below, or Contact Support.Com for Personalized Assistance.

Update Your Devices to Stop Meltdown

For Windows and Linux, you can check your Spectre and Meltdown vulnerability by navigating to https://www.grc.com/inspectre.htm. Produced by the Gibson Research Corporation, this provides an easy to use download that tells you whether you've been patched or not. It's a lot simpler to use than Microsoft Powershell.

Windows and Linux systems will also need to update their UEFI firmware or BIOS. If you bought a brand computer like a Dell or HP you can navigate to their site and find your UEFI and BIOS update. If you built your own computer, look up the site for your motherboard.

While Spectre and Meltdown have been around for a little while, some devices have not been updated to protect against it.

Patch Spectre and Meltdown in Windows

Microsoft has issued an emergency security update to supported versions of Windows as of January 3rd, 2018. If you have not already done so, we recommend that you configure Automatic Updates and check for updates.

1. Open the Start menu and select Settings.
   

1. Select Update and Security.
   

1. Select Windows Update on the left, then select Check for updates.
   

1. Once the system has finished checking for updates, it will automatically download and install the latest applicable updates.
2. The system also may prompt you to restart, if it does, please do so at your earliest convenience. Otherwise, the update process will not complete.If you system was already recently updated, chances are that no further updates are available and your Update status will indicate: Your device is up to date.
3. Once you've downloaded and installed the software patch you'll need to research your motherboard. You'll need to use that information to get the UEFI firmware and BIOS update.

Patch Spectre and Meltdown on an Apple Mac

Apple has released an update in macOS 10.13.2 that mitigates this security vulnerability. If you're updated to 10.13.2, you're protected. If you have not already done so, we recommend that you configure Automatic Updates and check for updates.

Make Sure Automatic Updates is On

1. Open the Apple menu, and select System Preferences.
   

1. Select Software Update.
   

1. Any updates for the macOS Operating System will be shown here. Make sure Automatically keep my Mac up to date is checked. You can also see the macOS version.
   

MacBook, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air must have the power adapter plugged in to automatically download updates.

Check for Updates

After making sure Automatic Updates is on, you can run updates to make sure everything is up to date.

1. Select the Apple menu, then App Store.
   

1. You will now see the app store pull up and can select Updates.
   

1. If your Mac is running 10.13 High Sierra or earlier Updates is on the top right.
   

Any version of macOS 10.7 (Lion) or older can check for available updates through the Apple Menu and Software Updates.

Patch Spectre and Meltdown on an Android phone or tablet

Google released an update in early January, 2018 that will help mitigate issues with Meltdown. If you have an Android phone that is Google branded (Pixel 2, Nexus 5X, etc), you already have the update. If you have at least the January 5, 2018 Android security patch, you are protected.

The Android OS can be updated manually by following the next steps.

Before proceeding with a system update, make sure that the battery level of your device is sufficient. This is best done while the battery level is at least 80%, or better when plugged in to the power outlet.

1. Open Settings on your phone or tablet.
   

1. Scroll to the bottom, and select About.
   

1. Select System update.
   

1. You'll see if there's any updates available, as well as when your device last checked for updates. If you wish, you can choose Check for update to make sure.
   

1. If an update is available, you can download and install it here.Do not turn off your phone during an update, it can result in serious problems that would require a qualified technician to fix.

Patch Spectre and Meltdown on an iPhone or iPad

All iOS devices were affected by this vulnerability. Apple has released an update in iOS 11.2 that mitigates the security flaw. You likely already have the update. Because of security issues like this, it is important to regularly check for updates.

To check which version of iOS is installed on your device, follow the next steps:

1. Open Settings on your phone or tablet.
   

1. Select General.
   

1. Select Software Update to see if there’s an update available.
   

1. Make sure Automatic Updates is set to On, and that you have at least iOS 11.2.
   

1. If there is an update available, ensure that you plug your iOS device into power before proceeding. 
2. Select Download and Install. You may have to Select Install a second time. If prompted, enter your passcode.