https://www.cnet.com/news/spectre-meltdown-intel-arm-amd-processor-cpu-chip-flaw-vulnerability-faq/

Processors: They're vital to running all our computerized devices, even if we hardly ever think about them. That's why it's a big deal that they have major vulnerabilities -- called Spectre and Meltdown -- which leave them open to hacking attacks.

As part of running all the essential processes on your computer, these silicon chips handle extremely sensitive data. That includes passwords and encryption keys, the fundamental tools for keeping your computer secure.