chrome security issues

Security Alert! Chrome is Corroded with Security Issues

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PUREVPNSecurity Alert! Chrome is Corroded with Security Issues

Google Chrome has become an essential part of our daily routine. You, me, and billions of other internet users opt for Chrome for all our internet activities. But recent reports have indicated that the browser is suffering from several security issues that could put all of our personal information and sensitive data at risk! Read on to uncover and resolve the top Chrome security issues.

These issues range from vulnerabilities that allow hackers to gain access to our computing systems to potential data leaks that could expose sensitive information to malicious third parties. Seeing this, we must take steps to protect ourselves and our devices. This may include updating to the latest version of the browser, using strong passwords, avoiding potentially risky websites and downloads, and using a VPN for added security.

chrome security issues

Why is Chrome not safe to use?

There are several reasons why Chrome may not be as safe as we thought it was.

Susceptible to security vulnerabilities

As with any software, Chrome is also not immune to bugs and flaws that can be exploited by hackers and other malicious actors. In recent years, several high-profile security issues have been discovered in the browser, including vulnerabilities that allow attackers to execute codes, bypass security features, and access sensitive user data. These security flaws can put our personal and confidential data at risk.

The common occurrence of online scams

Cybercriminals often use social engineering tactics to trick us into downloading malware, giving away personal information, or making fraudulent purchases. 

In some cases, these scams can be very unsuspecting, with attackers using advanced techniques to impersonate legitimate websites or steal sensitive data. Chrome’s popularity makes it a particularly attractive target for cybercriminals, who may exploit the browser’s vulnerabilities to launch cyberattacks.

Chrome’s spying practices

The browser’s built-in features, such as Google Search and Chrome Sync, collect data on users’ browsing habits and search history. While this data is typically used to improve the user experience and personalize content, it can also be used to track our online activities and potentially expose sensitive information. 

There have been many lawsuits that Google has lost where data collection is used for activities other than improving user experience.

One such lawsuit cost Google a record $391.5 million in November 2022. The 40-state AG settlement resolved charges that misled users into believing that their location data was not being collected by Google once they turned off their location settings. 

According to the attorneys general, Google breached consumer protection laws in each state by constantly acquiring and retaining a comprehensive record of users’ movements via services like search, maps, and apps that use WiFi and cellular phone towers.

Latest security problems on Chrome

On January 10, Google released some positive news that no zero-day vulnerabilities were found but Prudhvikumar Bommana, technical program manager at Google Chrome, has verified the existence of 17 vulnerabilities that vary in severity from low to high criticality.

Highly-severe security issues

  • CVE-2023-0128, which pertains to a use-after-free problem in Chrome’s overview mode
  • CVE-2023-0129, which relates to a heap buffer overflow issue in the network service.

Medium-level security issues

  • CVE-2023-0130, an inappropriate implementation issue with the fullscreen API.
  • CVE-2023-0131, which involves an improper implementation, this time in the iframe Sandbox.
  • CVE-2023-0132, which is also an improper implementation but in the permission prompts.
  • CVE-2023-0133, which, again, is an improper implementation, this one in the permission prompts as well.
  • CVE-2023-0134 is a use-after-free issue that affects Chrome’s cart.
  • CVE-2023-0135 is another use-after-free vulnerability in the cart.
  • CVE-2023-0136 is yet another inappropriate implementation problem, this time within the fullscreen API.
  • CVE-2023-0137 involves a heap buffer overflow problem in platform apps.

Low-level security issues 

  • CVE-2023-0138, which pertains to a heap buffer overflow in libphonenumber.
  • CVE-2023-0139, which involves insufficient validation of untrusted input in downloads.
  • CVE-2023-0140, which relates to improper implementation in the file system API.
  • CVE-2023-0141, which pertains to insufficient policy enforcement in CORS.

How to stay protected against Chrome security issues in the UK

Google Chrome is a popular browser, but it has faced several security issues in recent years. To stay protected against these issues, there are a few steps users can take.

Keep Chrome up-to-date

You need to update Chrome regularly with the latest security patches cause if you haven’t updated your browser yet, chances are that you are still at risk of the July 2022 Imperva discovered Chrome vulnerability, dubbed CVE-2022-3656 or known as ‘SymStealer’ which allows your sensitive data including cloud provider credentials and crypto wallets to be easily hacked and used by cyber attackers. 

This vulnerability was patched in September 2022 and Chrome issued a warning to update your browsers to stay safe, so update your browser now to avoid any such data risks.

Stay cautious while downloading extensions and add-ons

Malicious extensions can be used to steal your data, inject ads into web pages, or redirect you to malicious websites. Before downloading any extensions, check the developer’s reputation and read reviews from other users.

Use strong credentials

Create passwords that are strong and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This will help protect your accounts and prevent unauthorized access.

Be wary of phishing attempts

Hackers often use phishing emails or websites to trick users into giving away their personal information. Always check the URL of the website you are visiting and verify the sender of any email before clicking on links or entering personal information.

Use VPN for added security

Using a virtual private network (VPN) is another way to stay protected against Chrome security issues. It masks your IP address making it difficult for not only malicious third parties from accessing your location but also prevents Chrome from tracking your activities as well.

Benefits of using a VPN

When selecting a VPN, it’s important to choose a reputable provider that offers strong encryption and a no-logs policy such as PureVPN.

Why PureVPN?

Provides a strongly encrypted tunnel

PureVPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and a remote server, effectively masking your internet activity from prying eyes.

IP leak-proof protection

PureVPN’s IP leak-proof feature which includes WebRTC leak, DNS leak, and IPv6 leak protection is built to keep your private data from being used or tracked by your ISP or hackers including Chrome, giving you a secure and fast internet connection.

Safety while using public WiFi

Using PureVPN’s features and protocols like WireGuard, and IKEv2, you can prevent hackers from intercepting your internet traffic, particularly when using public WiFi. This is especially important if you frequently use Chrome to log into sensitive accounts, such as online banking or email.

Bypass regional limitations

PureVPN can also help bypass geolocation restrictions, allowing you to access websites and services that may be blocked in your region. This can be particularly useful when traveling or accessing content that may be censored in your country.

How to use PureVPN to avoid security mishaps on Chrome

Here’s how to use PureVPN to stay protected:

  • Download and install the PureVPN app.
  • Sign up for PureVPN.
  • Connect to a VPN server of your choice.
  • Launch Chrome and start browsing the web.
  • You can also add the PureVPN extension for the Chrome browser.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, Chrome’s popularity and widespread use make it a prime target for cybercriminals, who are constantly looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. While Google regularly releases updates and patches to address security issues, it is still important for you to take proactive measures to protect your devices and data.

Like using stronger passwords, avoiding suspicious websites and downloads, and using additional security measures such as VPNs and security keys. To know more about VPN, don’t hesitate to reach us via the LiveChat option. Stay safe and keep browsing!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a zero-day exploit?

A zero-day exploit is a security vulnerability or weakness in a software application or system that is unknown to the software developer or vendor. This means that the vulnerability can be exploited by attackers without any prior knowledge or warning to the software developer, making it more difficult to detect and prevent.

How to update Chrome security?

To update Chrome security, follow these steps:
Open Chrome < Go to Settings < Click on “Check for updates” for available updates < Click on “Update Chrome” if any updates are available.

How do I reset Chrome security?

To reset Chrome security settings to their default values, follow these steps:
Open Chrome < Click on the three dots in the top right corner of the browser window to open the Chrome menu < Go to Settings < Scroll to the bottom < Click on “Advanced” < Click on “Restore settings to their original defaults” under “Reset and clean up” < Confirm the reset.

What are the security keys on Chrome?

Security keys on Chrome are physical devices that provide an extra layer of security when logging into online accounts usually through two-factor authentication (2FA) where you must physically insert the key into the device and enter a PIN or provide a fingerprint to verify your identity before accessing the account.

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