I wouldn't doubt if it were true, just look at the Patriot Act, read it yourself and tell me we havn't lost any rights. If this were a serious issue then I suppose other computers should have this device as well, if you have a new computer and are willing to check.
People need to be very careful with new technology to protect their rights to privacy. I used to be into programming and shit and go on tech forums, that was years ago but I remember then reading articles about Longhorn/Palladium Microsofts upcomming OS and the TCPA.
http://www.againsttcpa.com/
http://www.geek.com/news/geeknews/20...0624015112.htm
http://www.salon.com/tech/feature/2002/07/11/palladium/