NVIDIA: Backdoors Are a Gift to Hackers, Not a Solution

• NVIDIA has publicly stated that its chips do not contain backdoors or kill switches, arguing that such features would undermine cybersecurity and trust in US technology.

NVIDIA, a leading US chip manufacturer, has released a blog post addressing recent proposals to embed tracking and verification technology into chips sold abroad. The company firmly reiterated its chips have no backdoors or kill switches that would allow remote access or control. This public statement follows a meeting with Chinese officials, who expressed concern over a US proposal that would require such features. NVIDIA warned that implementing these technologies would be a gift to hackers and hostile actors, potentially undermining global digital infrastructure and trust in US-made technology.

A backdoor is a hidden method used to bypass normal authentication or security controls. The proposal, discussed by the White House and US Congress, suggests including location verification to prevent chips from being diverted to countries under export bans. Despite these discussions, no formal rule or technical requirements have been established. NVIDIA emphasized that there is no such thing as a “good” secret backdoor, only dangerous vulnerabilities that must be eliminated to ensure security.

A Response to Policy and Geopolitical Tensions

NVIDIA’s blog post, published in both English and Chinese, comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension surrounding technology exports. The Chinese government summoned the company to a meeting to discuss its concerns about the US proposal. This move highlights the growing scrutiny on US tech companies as they navigate complex international relations. The company’s decision to publish the post in both languages is a clear attempt to communicate its stance to a global audience, including its customers and partners in China.

The US government’s suggestion to include location verification technology is part of a broader effort to enforce its export laws. The goal is to prevent advanced chips, particularly those used for artificial intelligence, from reaching certain countries. However, this proposal has sparked a debate about the technical feasibility and security implications of such a system. NVIDIA’s statement clearly pushes back against these ideas, prioritizing a secure, open, and trustworthy technology ecosystem.

The Problem with Embedded Backdoors

NVIDIA’s main argument centers on the inherent danger of backdoors and kill switches. The company believes these features, regardless of their intended purpose, create vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malicious actors. Once a backdoor exists, it can be discovered and used by anyone, not just the intended party. This makes technology less secure for all users and undermines the very foundation of cybersecurity. It would also erode the confidence of international partners who rely on US technology for critical infrastructure.

The company’s stance is that true security comes from eliminating all potential vulnerabilities, not by creating new ones for specific purposes. Implementing backdoors would contradict this principle and could have far-reaching consequences for the entire tech industry. It would create a dangerous precedent, potentially leading other countries to demand similar features or to develop their own closed-off technological ecosystems. This could lead to a fragmented and less secure global internet.