That Time Ken Thompson Wrote a Backdoor into the C Compiler

Hacker NewsSaturday, October 25, 2025 at 7:03:39 AM
NeutralTechnology
In a fascinating revelation, it has come to light that Ken Thompson, a pioneer in computer science, once embedded a backdoor into the C compiler. This incident raises important questions about security and trust in software development, highlighting the potential vulnerabilities that can exist even in foundational technologies. Understanding this history is crucial for developers and users alike, as it underscores the need for vigilance in software integrity.
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