Researchers Warn of Rising Firmware-Level Attacks Targeting Business Laptops

Cybersecurity researchers are warning of a growing increase in firmware level attacks targeting business-class laptops, a trend that poses serious risks to organizations due to its stealth and persistence. Unlike traditional malware, firmware-based threats operate below the operating system, making them extremely difficult to detect and remove.

Recent research indicates that attackers are increasingly targeting UEFI and BIOS firmware on laptops used in corporate and government environments. These components control the earliest stages of a computer’s startup process, allowing malicious code implanted at this level to execute before the operating system and security software are loaded.

According to analysts, attackers typically gain initial access through phishing campaigns, stolen administrative credentials, or compromised supply chains. Once sufficient privileges are obtained, malicious firmware can be installed, giving attackers long-term control over the device. Because firmware persists even after a hard drive is wiped or the operating system is reinstalled, victims may unknowingly continue using compromised systems.

Security experts note that firmware implants can be used to spy on users, reinstall malware repeatedly, or act as a hidden launch point for attacks across corporate networks. In some cases, compromised firmware has been linked to advanced threat groups conducting long-term espionage operations.

The rise in these attacks is partly attributed to the growing complexity of modern firmware and the lack of visibility many organizations have into this layer of their systems. While operating systems and applications are frequently monitored and patched, firmware updates are often overlooked or applied inconsistently.

Researchers are urging organizations to strengthen firmware security by enabling Secure Boot, enforcing hardware root-of-trust protections, and ensuring firmware updates are obtained only from trusted manufacturers. Regular hardware integrity checks and tighter access controls on administrative privileges are also recommended.

As attackers continue to shift toward deeper and more persistent attack methods, experts warn that firmware security can no longer be treated as a niche concern. Instead, it is becoming a critical component of modern cyber defense strategies, particularly for organizations handling sensitive data or operating in high-risk environments.

Author: Jamie Rina