Google issues critical Chrome update to patch zero-day vulnerability
This bug is being actively exploited in the wild by attackers
Hey, Chrome users, remember eight days ago when you had to update your browser because of a high-severity security risk? Well, it’s time to do it again!
Google has issued another update after a new vulnerability was found exploited in the wild. Chrome users are being asked to update their browsers again, immediately, after one of the three newly patched vulnerabilities has been exploited.
This latest flaw doesn’t have a CVE number yet – it’s just being referenced as 466192044 – but it does have a high-severity rating. As is typical, Google isn’t sharing any additional information to prevent others from capitalizing on the threat and using the fix to find the flaw before enough users have patched their browsers.
That means there aren’t any available details on who is exploiting the vulnerability, how widespread it is, or who may be targeted.
It is believed, due to reporting at Hacker News, that the problem is based in Google’s open source engine library, ANGLE, which powers WebGL and Open GL. Those are used to render interactive 2D and 3D graphics in web browsers; it’s suggested that the flaw is related to a buffer overflow, possibly conditions like memory corruption, browser crashes or arbitrary code execution (considered the worst of the three possible options).
How to stay safe
The good news is that the best way to stay safe is to keep your browser updated, which is easy to do by either restarting your browser or by doing it manually. To update manually, click the More dots (three dots in the upper right corner), then go to Settings > About Chrome. If there’s an update available, Chrome will download it. Restarting Chrome will install the update, and you’re all set.
These fixes may also apply to other Chromium-based browsers, so keep an eye out for updates for Brave, Edge or Opera. And while you're at it, run a scan with the best antivirus software to ensure your computer is virus-free.
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Amber Bouman is the senior security editor at Tom's Guide where she writes about antivirus software, home security, identity theft and more. She has long had an interest in personal security, both online and off, and also has an appreciation for martial arts and edged weapons. With over two decades of experience working in tech journalism, Amber has written for a number of publications including PC World, Maximum PC, Tech Hive, and Engadget covering everything from smartphones to smart breast pumps.
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