Virus Targets Specific CPU's

[Jason]

Security researchers at Symantec have discovered a new proof of concept virus that targets processors AMD rather than operating systems.

The worm comes in two versions, targeting 32-bit and 64-bit processors from AMD. Symantec refers to the online pests as w32.bounds and w64.bounds. Because it involves proof of concept code, both viruses are rated as low level threats.

Although at this point it concerns harmless proof of concept code, the virus could be used as a starting point for creating malware that affects computers regardless of the operating system that they run, cautioned Vincent Weafer, senior director of Symantec's Security Response Group.

Bad News for all CPU Manufacturers

I personally believe that virus/spyware/malware writers are only a few steps above fungus on the evolutionary scale, but besides that they never cease to amaze me in their persistence to cause damage and harm others.

Those worried about AMD should understand that it's only a matter of time before this afflicts Intel as well.