To the estimated 3 billion active users of the Google Chrome browser worldwide, the United States Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an urgent security update. Users are now under a strict deadline of 72 hours to update their Chrome browsers to safeguard against a potential exploit by the Void Banshee APT Hacking Group, which is linked to North Korea.
Typically, the Chrome browser automatically checks for and installs updates as users browse the web. However, this alert is particularly crucial for those who have not used Chrome recently. If you fall into this category, immediate action is required to update your browser.
The American tech giant, Google, has been providing these critical security patches since August 26, 2024. Despite this, it appears that many government organizations have not yet implemented these updates. As a result, these organizations are strongly encouraged to update their browsers by September 18, 2024, to prevent potential security breaches.
In addition, Microsoft has addressed this issue, noting that the same security update is necessary for users of its Edge browser. Recent findings reveal that cybercriminals are using HTML malware to secretly steal sensitive information, including saved passwords. This malware can even freeze the user’s screen, demanding that passwords be entered before it begins its nefarious activities.
OALABS Research has confirmed that this malware is indeed capable of freezing the screen and capturing passwords as they are entered. Consequently, government personnel are advised to temporarily stop using their browsers if they are unable to apply the necessary updates within the specified timeframe.
On a related note, Google has recently introduced three new AI-powered features in Chrome. The first feature enhances the browsing experience for users with iOS devices by allowing them to customize tab colors and names. This customization makes it easier to differentiate between tabs. Another significant update includes the ability to group tabs and synchronize information across various devices. This means users can view the same data on different screens, such as TVs or laptops, using the same email account.
The third AI feature is designed to help users revisit previously visited webpages by providing reminders, ensuring that important sites and information are easily accessible.
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