You may have recently seen news of significant computer processor and operating system security flaws affecting nearly any computing device including desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones. Software that exploits these security flaws, named Meltdown and Spectre, could allow hackers to steal data including passwords and other sensitive information. Security updates from operating system, web browser, and hardware vendors are currently being released. We want to make sure our community is aware of the details of the situation, how BU IT groups are addressing it, and what we should all be doing to keep our systems and data safe.

University owned computers:
As noted above, this issue is widespread and effects a variety of systems. Boston University IT groups are working to ensure BU managed computers and systems are patched for these flaws as fixes are released. If you are unsure if your system is patched, please contact your local IT support or the IT Help Center by sending an email to ithelp@bu.edu or calling 617-353-HELP (4357).

Personally owned computers and mobile devices:
We encourage all BU community members to ensure that their systems software (Operating Systems, Web Browsers, Hardware) remain updated with their latest security patches. Please visit our site with more information on how to keep your devices secure and up to date. You may also bring your devices to any IT Help Center location where we can help you install these updates at no charge.

For those wanting more detail on the attacks, visit the Meltdown and Spectre site.

If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact the IT Help Center by sending an email to ithelp@bu.edu or calling 617-353-HELP (4357).