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more on Can't we just get some answers or facts about this? INTEL -- responding to continuedmis information on IP
From: David Farber <dave () farber net>
Date: Sat, 11 Jun 2005 20:48:53 -0400
Begin forwarded message: From: Date: June 11, 2005 6:07:28 PM EDT To: dave () farber netSubject: Re: [IP] Can't we just get some answers or facts about this? INTEL -- responding to continuedmis information on IP
Dave - Please remove my address if you forward this. A previous submitter wrote:
This is one of the technologies used on the Pentium D: http://www.intel.com/standards/case/case_dtcp.htm It embeds a private key in each CPU. The key cannot be directly extracted, only used for signature and decryption operations. The idea is that your computer receives encrypted data from the set-top box, and can route it to a variety of other targets---but it's always encrypted when it leaves. So that might include other PCs in your home, or a television, or a monitor, or a storage device. It even works over IP, counting hops to ensure it doesn't leave your home.
But in fact if you read that linked page, it says no such thing. There is nothing about embedding a private key in a CPU. In fact, the page explicitly states,"Intel had decided copy protection shouldn't be implemented in hardware -
an approach that would require platform changes. Instead Intel proposed a software solution that would be clad with 'tamper-resistant' software to provide protection for the implementation."In a way, it's surprising a company known for its silicon would suggest a
software solution. But Intel knew a major objective for CE companies was for the solution to be extremely lightweight and inexpensive. CE devices can range hugely in price, from an inexpensive digital recorder for kids to a $5,000 home theatre system. Consequently, any copy protection solution had to work for the cheapest device and add practically nothing to its price."Based on this page it appears that the inflammatory claim you quoted about embedding keys lacks any grounds, evidence or support. Donald Whiteside's
statement that "Intel did not embed DRM technologies into the Pentium D and Intel 945 Express Chipset family" seems very clear and unambiguous. As VP, Corporate Technology Group, he would know, and he'd look pretty bad if it comes out with an embedded key of the kind your anonymous source suggested. If anyone can provide any evidence whatsoever that these next-gen chips will have such a capability, let him provide it or else withdraw the claim. ------------------------------------- You are subscribed as lists-ip () insecure org To manage your subscription, go to http://v2.listbox.com/member/?listname=ip Archives at: http://www.interesting-people.org/archives/interesting-people/
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