more on Can't we just get some answers or facts about this? INTEL -- responding to continuedmis information on IP

[David Farber <dave () farber net>]

Begin forwarded message:

From:
Date: June 11, 2005 6:07:28 PM EDT
To: dave () farber net
Subject: 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.


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