Google issues emergency Chrome update

Critical Chrome update: Hackers exploit zero-day vulnerability

Google has released an emergency update for Chrome following the discovery of a dangerous zero-day vulnerability that is already being actively exploited. The flaw, identified as CVE-2025-3215, affects the widely used V8 JavaScript engine and has been rated as a high-severity issue. This is the third actively exploited zero-day vulnerability in Chrome in 2025, underscoring the growing speed and sophistication of cyber threats.

What is CVE-2025-3215?

The vulnerability stems from a type confusion issue in Chrome’s V8 engine, which is responsible for processing JavaScript code in the browser. Type confusion bugs occur when data is misinterpreted by the system, potentially leading to memory corruption or the execution of unintended instructions.

In this case, the flaw allows attackers to execute malicious code directly within the browser environment. This could bypass built-in security measures, giving cybercriminals the opportunity to deploy malware, steal user data, or compromise entire systems.

If you want to learn more about how malware works and how it spreads, you can read our article on malware here.

The exploit is already in use

Google has confirmed that the vulnerability is being exploited in real-world attacks. As is standard practice, the company is withholding detailed technical information until most users have updated their browsers. This delay helps prevent additional threat actors from leveraging the flaw while users are still vulnerable.

The bug was reported by an anonymous researcher, suggesting it may have been discovered after it had already been used in targeted attacks.

The emergency fix

The patched versions are 125.0.6422.112/.113 for Windows and Mac and 125.0.6422.112 for Linux. Users can check and apply the update by going to Settings > About Chrome, where the browser will automatically download the latest version.

Given that Chrome is used by over three billion people globally, installing the patch as soon as possible is essential.

Why zero-day vulnerabilities are so dangerous

Zero-day vulnerabilities are flaws that are exploited before developers have had a chance to fix them. This gives attackers an advantage, allowing them to target victims without warning. Because browsers are used to access a wide range of services and information, they are frequent targets for exploitation.

In recent years, both cybercriminal groups and state-sponsored actors have increasingly relied on browser-based zero-days to carry out attacks that involve credential theft, spyware deployment, or system infiltration.

You can dive deeper into the world of zero-day vulnerabilities and how they are exploited by reading our in-depth article about zero-day here.

How to stay safe

• Update your Chrome browser to the latest version immediately

• Keep automatic updates enabled to receive future fixes without delay

• Use additional security tools such as endpoint protection to detect and block exploit attempts

• Be cautious when clicking on unfamiliar links or visiting untrusted websites

The bigger picture

This latest incident highlights how quickly threat actors move to exploit newly discovered vulnerabilities. It also shows how essential it is for users to maintain good cyber hygiene and stay informed about emerging threats.

At Moxso, we are committed to helping users navigate the shifting cybersecurity landscape. Staying up to date and aware is one of the most effective ways to protect against zero-day exploits and other critical threats.