CERT High Risk Security Warning Issued for Google Chrome Browser Users
Table of Contents
Overview
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a high risk security advisory warning Google Chrome users about multiple vulnerabilities in desktop versions of the popular browser. The bulletin, released on October 30, 2025, highlights serious flaws affecting Windows, macOS, and Linux systems that could potentially allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or gain access to sensitive user information.
The advisory emphasizes immediate action — urging both individuals and organizations to update their Chrome browsers to the latest stable version.
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What CERT-In Found
According to the latest Vulnerability Note CIVN-2025-0288, CERT India revealed that the detected flaws exist in multiple internal components of Google Chrome, including:
V8 JavaScript Engine
Extensions and Autofill
Media Handling System
Omnibox (Address Bar)
These vulnerabilities are triggered when users unknowingly visit malicious or specially crafted websites, allowing remote attackers to exploit system resources or inject harmful scripts.
Technical Details of the Flaws
CERT-In categorized the discovered vulnerabilities as “high-risk” due to their potential impact. The report specifies that these flaws stem from issues such as:
Type Confusion Errors – mishandling data types that could lead to crashes or code execution.
Use-After-Free Vulnerabilities – memory mismanagement after object deletion, often exploited by attackers.
Object Lifecycle and Policy Bypass Issues – enabling attackers to bypass browser security mechanisms.
If exploited, these weaknesses could allow cybercriminals to:
Execute arbitrary code remotely
Bypass Chrome’s built-in security protections
Steal sensitive data or credentials
Compromise the entire system
These issues are tracked under the CVE identifiers CVE-2025-12429 through CVE-2025-12447.
Who Is Affected
The affected Chrome builds are:
Windows & macOS: Versions older than 142.0.7444.59/60
Linux: Versions prior to 142.0.7444.59
If your browser version is below these build numbers, your system may be vulnerable to remote exploitation.
How to Stay Protected
CERT-In and Google both recommend updating your browser immediately to minimize risk.
To check and install the update:
Open Google Chrome.
Click on the three-dot menu (⋮) at the top-right corner.
Navigate to Help → About Google Chrome.
Chrome will automatically check for and install available updates.
Restart the browser to apply patches.
The latest Stable Channel Update for Desktop (version 142.0.7444.60), released by Google on October 28, 2025, includes fixes for these vulnerabilities and additional security improvements.
Official Sources & References
CERT-In Vulnerability Note: CIVN-2025-0288
Google Chrome Release Blog: Stable Channel Update for Desktop – October 28, 2025
CERT-In’s advisory urges corporate IT administrators to push browser updates across employee systems, especially where Chrome is integrated with enterprise web tools, to prevent potential exploitation.
Why These Updates Matter
Google Chrome is the world’s most widely used browser, accounting for over 65% of global desktop market share. That dominance also makes it a prime target for attackers. Vulnerabilities like these are often exploited in drive-by download attacks, phishing campaigns, and malware injections — all of which can compromise user safety and privacy in seconds.
By regularly updating Chrome, users not only patch known vulnerabilities but also benefit from enhanced performance, sandboxing improvements, and threat detection features.
Expert Take
Cybersecurity experts note that memory-related vulnerabilities like use-after-free and type confusion are increasingly exploited in zero-day attacks. While Google’s Chrome security team frequently patches these flaws, there’s always a narrow window where unpatched systems remain exposed.
“Even a few hours of delay in applying browser updates can expose millions of users to potential cyber threats,” said a security analyst familiar with the advisory. “CERT-In’s proactive alert is crucial for minimizing this risk.”
Quick Summary
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Agency | Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) |
| Advisory Code | CIVN-2025-0288 |
| Published On | October 30, 2025 |
| Affected Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Affected Versions | Chrome builds older than 142.0.7444.59/60 |
| Severity Level | High |
| CVE Range | CVE-2025-12429 to CVE-2025-12447 |
| Recommended Action | Update Chrome to version 142.0.7444.60 or newer |
| Official Fix Release | Google Stable Channel Update – October 28, 2025 |
Final Word
If you’re using Google Chrome on your desktop, update it immediately. This small action can protect your personal data, banking credentials, and system integrity from potential exploits.
With the growing number of browser-based attacks, staying vigilant and ensuring your software is up to date is one of the simplest yet most effective cybersecurity habits you can adopt.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on details first reported by official sources and publicly available news, including Google News. We have adapted and rewritten the content for clarity, SEO optimization, and reader experience. All trademarks and images belong to their respective owners.
