Big security flaw on Google Chrome: if you want to protect your data, you must update your browser

JVTech News Big security flaw on Google Chrome: if you want to protect your data, you must update your browser

A big security flaw on Google Chrome

Google recently rolled out a crucial update to its Chrome browser, aimed at fixing a major security flaw. This update affects all Chrome users, whether they are on Mac, Windows or Linux.

The flaw, identified as CVE-2024-4671, was reported by an anonymous researcher and rated as highly severe by Google security experts. According to available information, this vulnerability could already be exploited by hackers.

On May 9, 2024, Google announced versions 124.0.6367.201/.202 for Mac and Windows and 124.0.6367.201 for Linux. This update aims to fix a type of flaw known as “Use after free” which affects the “Visuals” component of Chrome. This component is essential for displaying content on the browser, and the flaw would allow a program to continue using an already freed memory location. If this memory space is reused by other software, it could lead to data leaks or allow an attacker to execute malicious code.

The “Use after free” type of flaw is particularly dangerous because it allows a program to reference a dynamic memory location after it has been freed. In other words, the program continues to access memory that is no longer allocated to it, which creates opportunities for attacks. If this memory is allocated to another process, an attacker could use this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code, take control of the affected system or exfiltrate sensitive data.

According to the explanations provided by Android Authority, this flaw specifically affects the component that manages the display of content on Chrome. The consequences of such a breach can be serious, ranging from the leak of personal data to the takeover of the computer by an unauthorized third party.

To protect against this vulnerability, it is imperative to ensure that your version of Google Chrome is up to date. Fortunately, Chrome updates usually happen in the background. However, it is advisable to manually check if your browser is the most recent version.

To check which version of Google Chrome you are using, follow these simple steps:

• Open Google Chrome.
• Click on the menu at the top right (the three vertical dots).
• Select “About Google Chrome”.

This action will open a new window where the Chrome version number will be displayed. If an update is available, it will download and install automatically.

Keeping your browser up to date is crucial to your online security. Updates not only include new features and performance improvements, but also fixes for security vulnerabilities like this one. Ignoring these updates exposes your personal and business data to unnecessary risks.

Google moved quickly to fix this flaw, but the responsibility also falls on users to ensure their systems are protected. By updating your browser, you help strengthen your security and reduce the risks associated with potential vulnerabilities.

The recent Google Chrome update is a necessary response to a serious security threat. All Chrome users on Mac, Windows and Linux should make sure they are using the latest version of the browser. This vigilance is essential to protect your data against potential attacks.

By following the recommendations for updating your browser, you can continue to use Chrome safely. It’s always important to stay informed about new security updates and apply them as soon as they become available to avoid any compromise of your personal and business data.