Google has released an urgent security update for its Chrome browser to address multiple high-severity vulnerabilities that could enable attackers to execute malicious code remotely on users’ systems. The most critical of these is a use-after-free vulnerability in the browser’s Compositing system, identified as CVE-2025-5063. This flaw poses significant risks to users who have not yet updated their browsers.
Use-after-free vulnerabilities occur when a program continues to use memory after it has been freed, leading to unpredictable behavior, including crashes or the execution of malicious code. In the case of CVE-2025-5063, attackers could exploit this flaw by tricking users into visiting specially crafted websites, potentially gaining control over affected systems. This could result in data theft, installation of malware, or further system compromise.
In addition to CVE-2025-5063, the update addresses several other vulnerabilities:
– CVE-2025-5064: A medium-severity inappropriate implementation in Background Fetch, reported by Maurice Dauer. This flaw could allow attackers to bypass security checks for background downloads, enabling manipulation of download processes or abuse of browser APIs, thereby risking data integrity. Google awarded a $4,000 bounty for this report.
– CVE-2025-5065: A medium-severity flaw in the FileSystemAccess API, stemming from improper permission controls, reported by NDevTK in 2022. Exploitation could allow malicious websites to access or modify local files without user consent. A $2,000 reward was given for this finding.
– CVE-2025-5066: Discovered by Mohit Raj (shadow2639), this medium-severity issue in Chrome’s Messages component involved flawed policy enforcement. It could allow attackers to intercept or manipulate browser-to-user communications, potentially leading to data leaks. A $1,000 bounty was issued for this 2024-reported vulnerability.
– CVE-2025-5067: A low-severity inappropriate implementation in the Tab Strip UI, reported by Khalil Zhani in 2023. This flaw risked phishing attacks via tab spoofing, highlighting UI-level vulnerabilities that could mislead users. Google awarded $500 for this finding.
Google’s security bulletin noted that access to bug details and links may be kept restricted until a majority of users are updated with a fix, suggesting the company is taking precautions to prevent widespread exploitation of these vulnerabilities.
How to Update Your Chrome Browser:
Updating Chrome is a straightforward process that provides immediate protection against these vulnerabilities. To update your browser:
1. Open Google Chrome.
2. Click on the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner.
3. Navigate to Help > About Google Chrome.
4. Chrome will automatically check for updates and install the latest version.
5. Restart the browser to complete the update process.
Given the severity of these vulnerabilities, users are strongly advised to update their Chrome installations immediately to version 137.0.7151.40/.41 for Windows and Mac. This proactive measure will help safeguard your system against potential exploits that could lead to unauthorized access or control.
In conclusion, the discovery of these high-severity vulnerabilities underscores the importance of keeping software up to date. Regular updates not only provide new features but also address security flaws that could be exploited by malicious actors. By promptly updating Chrome, users can protect themselves from potential threats and ensure a safer browsing experience.
