Key Points
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CERT-In alert warns users about a severe security flaw in Google Chrome that may allow hackers to take control of systems.
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The issue affects Chrome browsers on Windows, macOS, and Linux running older versions.
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Users must install the Google Chrome security update (version 141.0.7390.122 or later) immediately to stay protected.
CERT-In Alert: A Major Warning for Google Chrome Users
The CERT-In alert has raised serious concerns among millions of internet users across India. The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), which monitors and handles cybersecurity threats, has issued a high-severity warning for Google Chrome. According to its latest advisory, a critical vulnerability has been found in Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine — a key part of how websites run scripts inside your browser. This flaw, tracked as CVE-2025-12036, could allow hackers to run malicious code remotely on affected systems, putting user data, passwords, and even entire devices at risk.
The CERT-In alert explains that this vulnerability impacts Chrome browsers running on Windows, macOS, and Linux that have not yet been updated to the latest build. Specifically, Chrome versions older than 141.0.7390.122/.123 on Windows and macOS, and 141.0.7390.122 on Linux, are vulnerable. Attackers can exploit this issue simply by tricking users into visiting a malicious website or clicking a crafted link that triggers the flaw. Once the exploit is triggered, hackers can gain access to sensitive information, install malware, or even take complete control of the user’s computer without permission.
Google Chrome Security Update: Why This Vulnerability Is Dangerous
The Google Chrome security update was urgently rolled out to patch a serious weakness in Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine — the component responsible for executing code on websites and enabling dynamic content such as animations, forms, and interactive pages. Because V8 handles memory management at very high speeds, even a small bug can have massive consequences. In this case, researchers found that incorrect handling of memory could allow malicious JavaScript to overwrite critical data or execute unauthorized code within the browser.
The Google Chrome security update addresses a flaw caused by improper memory management during the just-in-time (JIT) compilation process. This process is designed to make web pages load faster, but if a vulnerability exists, attackers can use carefully crafted JavaScript to manipulate the memory state and execute arbitrary code. Essentially, this means a hacker could make your browser run commands they choose — from stealing personal data to installing harmful software. Once compromised, even antivirus tools might struggle to detect the intrusion because it originates from a legitimate process inside the browser.
Cybersecurity experts have emphasized that these types of flaws are often exploited quickly once disclosed, meaning users who delay updates are at a higher risk. The CERT-In alert urges Chrome users to act immediately and verify their browser version to ensure the patch has been applied. Google has acknowledged the issue and has already released the fixed versions globally through automatic updates, but manual checks are still recommended.
CERT-In Alert: How to Protect Yourself and Apply the Chrome Update
Following the CERT-In alert, users are advised to take immediate action to safeguard their devices. The first and most important step is to update Chrome to version 141.0.7390.122 or newer. This can be done easily by opening Chrome, clicking the three dots in the top-right corner, navigating to Help → About Google Chrome, and allowing the browser to check for updates. Once the update is downloaded, restarting Chrome will complete the installation and apply the latest Google Chrome security update.
CERT-In also recommends practicing good cybersecurity hygiene. Users should avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or visiting suspicious websites until they are sure their Chrome browser is up to date. Additionally, enabling automatic updates ensures that future security patches are installed without delay. For organizations and IT administrators, deploying the updated Chrome version across all employee systems is critical to avoid potential data breaches or ransomware attacks.
The Google Chrome security update is part of Google’s ongoing effort to maintain a secure browsing experience for its billions of users. Over the years, the Chrome team has introduced several layers of protection, including sandboxing, site isolation, and memory safety mechanisms. However, as attackers become more sophisticated, even small flaws can be exploited if left unpatched. That’s why the CERT-In alert highlights the importance of regular updates — not only for Chrome but for all software that interacts with the internet.
Google Chrome Security Update: Why You Should Act Now
While the CERT-In alert may seem technical, the risk it points out is very real for everyday users. Cyber attackers often take advantage of unpatched vulnerabilities within days of disclosure. Once they know a flaw exists, they create automated tools to scan for vulnerable systems and exploit them. This makes it essential for users to install the Google Chrome security update immediately and not postpone it. Even if your system seems safe, outdated browsers can become easy targets for phishing attacks or drive-by downloads — where malicious code installs silently without user consent.
Experts also recommend turning on Chrome’s Safe Browsing feature, which warns users before they visit risky sites or download harmful files. Keeping your operating system and antivirus software updated adds an extra layer of defense against such threats. In corporate environments, IT departments should enforce browser update policies to ensure all devices receive the latest patches.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of being affected by this vulnerability. The CERT-In alert serves as a crucial reminder that in today’s digital world, cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. Staying vigilant, updating regularly, and avoiding suspicious websites are small but vital habits that protect both personal data and professional information.
