Critical Security Update Required for League of Legends & PC Motherboards
A recently discovered security vulnerability is impacting PC users and potentially blocking access to popular games like League of Legends. This issue stems from a flaw in how Riot Vanguard, the anti-cheat system used by League of legends, interacts with certain motherboard chipsets. Here’s what you need to know and how to ensure your system remains secure and game-ready.
What’s Happening?
Essentially, a vulnerability has been identified that could allow malicious actors to exploit systems. Riot Vanguard, in an effort to proactively address this, may begin blocking users with vulnerable motherboards from launching League of Legends. This isn’t a game issue, but a security measure triggered by the anti-cheat software.
Which Motherboards Are Affected?
The vulnerability impacts motherboards from four major manufacturers: ASRock, Asus, Gigabyte, and MSI. It primarily affects newer chipsets, but the situation is complex. Here’s a breakdown by manufacturer:
* ASRock: Affected intel boards utilize the 500-, 600-, 700-, and 800-series chipsets.
* Asus: The vulnerability impacts boards with 400-series Intel chipsets and newer. Notably, 800-series support is currently missing from their advisories.
* Gigabyte: Patches are available for intel boards using the 600- through 800-series chipsets, and AMD’s 600- and 800-series chipsets (AM5 socket).
* MSI: Currently, MSI lists only the 600- and 700-series chipsets as affected.
This collectively covers Intel’s 10th-generation Core processors and newer, as well as AMD Ryzen 7000 series and newer.
What Do You Need to do?
First, determine your motherboard chipset. You can usually find this information in your system information (search “System Information” in Windows) or on the manufacturer’s website using your motherboard model number.
then, check your motherboard manufacturer’s website for available BIOS updates. Installing the latest BIOS is crucial. If you are blocked from playing League of Legends by Vanguard, a BIOS update is now a mandatory step to regain access.
* ASRock Security bulletin: https://www.asrock.com/support/Security.asp?iD=1
* MSI Security Advisories: https://csr.msi.com/global/product-security-advisories
* Asus Security Advisory: https://www.asus.com/security-advisory/
* Gigabyte Security Advisory: https://www.gigabyte.com/Support/Security/2338
What About Older Systems?
This is where things get a little murky. It’s currently unclear whether older chipsets – specifically, those not explicitly mentioned by each manufacturer – are safe. They might not require a patch, or a patch might be forthcoming.
however, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Regularly checking your manufacturer’s website for updates is always a good practice. If you experience issues launching League of Legends, a BIOS update should be your first troubleshooting step.
OEM systems (dell, Lenovo, HP, etc.)
The impact on pre-built systems from manufacturers like Dell, Lenovo, Acer, and HP is still being assessed. It’s recommended that you check their respective support websites for updates specific to your system.
