From TFA:
> Intel has revealed that each Pentium III chip will carry a unique serial number that can be read by the computer's software. Intel claims that the serial number will facilitate e-commerce, promote "digital content protection," prevent counterfeiting of Intel processors, and help to track stolen ones. We know users have questions about this controversial feature, so we assembled this FAQ. Q: Why are privacy experts concerned? A: Privacy experts are concerned because the CPU's electronic serial number could be used for purposes that may not be in users' best interests.