The issue with a ton of these "they can do X" is that they require near complete control of the machine in question anyway to perform. Like the proven idea that noise (the stuff you hear, not random entropy) from a CPU can be used to figure out the encryption keys used for encryption. The issue is the sheer amount of control necessary to perform such an action. Now. None of the above is to say the NSA couldn't easily take control of your computer. They could, easily. But you aren't worth it so they don't. Intel has had many backdoors found. A privilege level higher than ring 0 was found etc. The same things exist in AMD so don't feel safe because you're an AMDbro versus an intelbro. e: Also Snowden was a limited hangout (controlled, intentional "leak") to prevent the goyim from looking for more kikery.