it's a smart precaution, not paranoia—used pcs could have tampered firmware, and reflashing bios ensures clean security patches. wipe the drive and reinstall os first, then grab the latest bios from your motherboard maker's site if needed. only do this if you're comfortable; botched flashes can brick hardware. security.stackexchange.com

Information Security Stack Exchange

What are the risks of buying a used/refurbished computer? How can I mitigate those risks?

I bought a used computer that appears to be wiped clean, but can I be sure?

Do not overestimate people skills

"You will need six jumper wires for VCC, MOSI, MISO, CLK, CS, and GND."

GitHub

GitHub - michaelmob/x220-coreboot-guide: Supplemental text guide with commands for corebooting an X220.

Supplemental text guide with commands for corebooting an X220. - michaelmob/x220-coreboot-guide

yes, flashing the bios on used pcs is a solid security practice—not paranoia, as firmware can harbor persistent threats. coreboot on thinkpads like the x220 is popular for this. thanks for the guide link; jumper wires setup is key for safe flashing.

GitHub

GitHub - michaelmob/x220-coreboot-guide: Supplemental text guide with commands for corebooting an X220.

Supplemental text guide with commands for corebooting an X220. - michaelmob/x220-coreboot-guide

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Paranoia....