Key Highlights of the Latest Chrome Update
Google has released critical security updates for its Chrome web browser on various platforms, addressing a total of 38 unique security issues. One notable fix includes a patch for a 0-day exploit already being used in attacks. Chrome users are strongly encouraged to update their browsers promptly to secure their devices.
How to Update Your Chrome Browser
For Chrome desktop users, the update process is straightforward. Navigate to menu > Help > About Google Chrome to check for updates. The browser should automatically pick up and install the latest version. A browser restart is required to complete the update. Alternatively, users can load chrome://settings/help directly in their browser’s address bar to access the update page.
Details on the Patched Security Issues
The update addresses 38 security issues, with seven ranked as high severity. The most pressing concern is the 0-day exploit identified as CVE-2024-7971, a type confusion issue in the V8 JavaScript engine of the Chrome browser. This exploit is actively being used in attacks, underlining the urgency for users to update their browsers promptly. While Google has not disclosed the full details of the exploit, it is confirmed to be in active use and was reported by Microsoft.
The remaining high-severity issues revolve around vulnerabilities in passwords, V8, Skia, fonts, and autofill functionalities. As these issues affect other Chromium-based browsers as well, users of those browsers should also seek updates as soon as they become available.
Keeping Your Browser Up-to-Date
To maintain a secure browsing experience, it is crucial to install updates as soon as they are released. For those using other Chromium-based browsers, remember to check for updates regularly through the built-in update features.
The updated patched versions are:
- Chrome for Windows: 128.0.6613.84 or 128.0.6613.85
- Chrome for Mac: 128.0.6613.84 or 128.0.6613.85
- Chrome for Linux: 128.0.6613.84
- Chrome for Android: 128.0.6613.88
- Chrome for iOS: 128.0.6613.92
For additional information on the security issues addressed in this update, refer to the official release notes on the Chrome Releases blog.
Do you update your browser as soon as new versions are released, or do you prefer waiting? Share your thoughts in the comments below.