Astute computer engineer foils hacking attempt on millions of computers

Linux, the operating system for a vast number of computers, internet servers, and other devices all over the world, had a secret backdoor built into it. Andres Freund, a Microsoft programmer, found it and alerted the world to the insidious vulnerability. The World’s Carolyn Beeler talks with Andy Greenberg, a senior writer at Wired, about the vulnerability, how Freund found it, and the trail of clues that point to who might have been responsible for placing the backdoor into the code. 

Do you support journalism that strengthens our democracy?

At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.

Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!