It’s definitely not a good week for many Linux enthusiasts who use dual-booting in Windows.
This Tuesday, Microsoft released a Windows security update, which caused an error message on the Linux login screen. Many users are now confused and trying to find solutions to access their system ASAP. So, what exactly happened in the update?
What Exactly Happened?
It all started in August 2024 when Microsoft rolled out its security update. This update was to fix the two-year-old vulnerability in the GRUB boot loader (Important software for Linux distributions).
The vulnerability was CVE-2022-2601, which allowed attackers to bypass any secure boot.
However, this update did more damage, so rather than fixing the vulnerability, it prohibited the dual-boot option.
Although Microsoft assured the patch would not affect the dual booting, many users started facing the error message. So instead of a smooth access, Linux users get the errors like:
“Verifying shim SBAT data failed: Security Policy Violation. Something has gone seriously wrong: SBAT self-check failed.”
This update has impacted many Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Zorin OS, Linux Mint, Debian, etc. Moreover, online forums like Reddit and the Ubuntu community are flooded with hundreds of complaints and help.
What Can You Do?
If you are also facing this error after the update, a couple of things might help.
- The first one is to disable the secure boot from your BIOS Settings, but it is not the ideal one as it can affect the security of your system.
- The second one is a bit technical, so try logging into your Linux system. If you get access, then open the terminal and delete the SBAT policy of the latest Microsoft update.
How Microsoft’s Respond
Microsoft hasn’t explained much about the issue, but they have released an official statement. Microsoft acknowledged that the update was not supposed to affect dual-boot systems, but they are working with Linux partners to sort it out.
Therefore, this latest issue caused a series of problems around Secure Boot, which was supposed to protect the systems. Over the years, multiple vulnerabilities have been discovered in Secure Boot, leading to situations where the cure is almost as bad as the disease.
If you are also a dual-boot user, we recommend you keep an eye on further Microsoft patches. Meanwhile, the Linux community is doing what it does best: sharing solutions, offering support, and trying to make the best of a bad situation.
