Intel Releases 2023 Product Security Report Highlighting Commitment to Security Assurance
- Intel's proactive investments accounted for 94% of vulnerability disclosures in 2023, the highest level in five years.
- Intel achieved a combined 39% reduction in hardware and firmware vulnerabilities in 2023 compared with 2022.
- The report found that AMD reported three times more platform firmware vulnerabilities than Intel in 2023.
- ABI Research ranks Intel as the silicon leader in product security assurance, validating its leadership in security practices.
- Intel's transparent and proactive approach to security is crucial for maintaining high standards in quality and security assurance.
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Insights
Intel's commitment to proactively addressing vulnerabilities is a significant step in mitigating cyber risks. The 94% figure of vulnerability disclosures stemming from proactive investments suggests a robust security protocol that could become an industry benchmark. The substantial decrease in hardware and firmware vulnerabilities by 39% signifies a successful implementation of their security assurance practices. It is critical, however, to analyze the 208% increase in software vulnerabilities. This could indicate a shift in threat vectors or an expansion in scope of Intel's software ecosystem. The comparison with AMD's reported vulnerabilities highlights the competitive landscape in cybersecurity practices within the semiconductor industry. Stakeholders should consider how these security measures can potentially reduce costs related to cyber incidents and enhance customer trust, thus impacting Intel's market position positively.
The data from Intel's Product Security Report potentially reflects on the company's brand reputation and customer loyalty. Security is a top priority for consumers and businesses alike and Intel's proactive approach could influence purchasing decisions. The mention of Intel outperforming AMD in terms of fewer vulnerabilities could affect market perception and investor confidence. However, it is important to monitor the long-term effectiveness of these security measures and whether they translate into sustained market advantage. The rise in software vulnerabilities could be a concern and it is essential to evaluate how Intel plans to address this increase. The overall positive assessment by ABI Research positions Intel favorably among its peers, which could lead to increased stakeholder interest and investment.
From a financial perspective, Intel's proactive security investments are likely to have a dual impact. Initially, there may be increased costs associated with the implementation of these security measures. However, the long-term benefits could include reduced expenses from potential breaches and maintaining a competitive edge in the market. The report's findings may reassure investors of Intel's commitment to product security, potentially influencing the company's stock performance. The comparison with AMD provides valuable context for investors, as it showcases Intel's relative strength in an important operational area. The financial implications of the increased software vulnerabilities need careful assessment, as it could suggest necessary future investments in software security.
Security is more important than ever as attacks grow in sophistication and system security becomes more dependent on solid hardware and software foundations.
Intel's 2023 Product Security Report found that proactive investments accounted for
“Intel believes a transparent approach to security is the only way to truly empower customers while delivering product innovations that build defenses at the foundation. Protecting workloads while accelerating software resilience is key to pushing the boundaries around how we define what is and what is not secure. Working with our customers and industry partners through key security assurance practices enables us to achieve the levels of secure performance people expect and deliver technology they trust.”
– Greg Lavender, Intel executive vice president, chief technology officer and general manager of the Software and Advanced Technology Group
Why It Matters: In the past year, Intel addressed 353 vulnerabilities, while a record 256 researchers engaged in its Bug Bounty program (up from 181 in 2022), including an elite community of ethical hackers through Project Circuit Breaker. Companies, like Intel, who have prioritized these initiatives for years remain at the forefront of security and innovation. Their efforts combat modern cyberthreats for the betterment of the entire ecosystem and provide the first line of defense for customers. They also produce tangible security benefits; the report found that AMD reported three times more platform firmware vulnerabilities than Intel in 2023.
What the Report Says: Key findings from the report, which is in its fifth year, include:
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Intel achieved a combined
39% reduction in hardware and firmware vulnerabilities in 2023 compared with 2022. -
Compared with 2022, there was a decrease in firmware vulnerabilities (
38% fewer), a decrease in hardware vulnerabilities (47% fewer) and an increase in software vulnerabilities (208% more), which is attributed to the growth of Intel’s Bug Bounty and security researcher engagement programs. - Of the 353 vulnerabilities that were addressed in 2023, 256 were in software.
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In 2023,
89% of common vulnerabilities and exposures (CVEs) reported by external sources qualified for a bounty and a record 256 researchers engaged in Intel Bug Bounty programs. - In 2023, AMD had more than 3.5 times as many vulnerabilities in its Chain of Trust/Secure Boot firmware components and features than Intel.
A recent white paper from ABI Research1 ranks Intel as the silicon leader in product security assurance, offering a comparative assessment of the practices of top technology vendors including AMD, Nvidia, Qualcomm and Arm. This validates Intel’s leadership in delivering a product portfolio with world-class security assurance built in. The research found that
About Intel’s Role: If hardware isn’t secure, then a system can’t be either – and technology vendors have an essential role to play. Intel’s ongoing prioritization of the advancement of security assurance, robust incident response, community advocacy and research help provide unique value to its many customers and partners. It is this protection at multiple levels and across workloads that defends against ever-evolving adversaries. Intel’s long-standing commitment to security, both within the company and across the entire technology ecosystem, has never been stronger.
More Context: 2023 Product Security Report | ABI Research: Embracing Security as a Core Component of the Tech You Buy | Chips & Salsa Video Series | InTechnology Podcast | Project Circuit Breaker | Intel’s Bug Bounty Program | Product Security at Intel
About Intel
Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) is an industry leader, creating world-changing technology that enables global progress and enriches lives. Inspired by Moore’s Law, we continuously work to advance the design and manufacturing of semiconductors to help address our customers’ greatest challenges. By embedding intelligence in the cloud, network, edge and every kind of computing device, we unleash the potential of data to transform business and society for the better. To learn more about Intel’s innovations, go to newsroom.intel.com and intel.com.
1ABI Research white paper “Embracing Security as a Core Component of the Tech You Buy” was independently conducted by ABI Research and sponsored by Intel.
© Intel Corporation. Intel, the Intel logo and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.
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Jennifer Foss
1-425-765-3485
jennifer.foss@intel.com
Source: Intel
FAQ
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