On March 1, 2023, Google released a new update to its Chrome browser, Google Chrome Version 105.0.5195.102, in response to a zero-day vulnerability that was being actively exploited by attackers. This zero-day vulnerability, which was discovered by Google’s Project Zero team, allowed attackers to execute arbitrary code on the victim’s computer.
The zero-day vulnerability was reported to Google on February 24, 2023, and Google immediately began working on a fix. The fix was released just six days later on March 1, 2023. Google’s quick response to this vulnerability is a testament to its commitment to providing a secure browsing experience to its users.
The Vulnerability
The zero-day vulnerability was caused by a memory corruption issue in Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine. This engine is used to execute JavaScript code on websites, and the vulnerability allowed attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the browser. This could be used to steal sensitive information, install malware, or take other malicious actions.
The specific details of the vulnerability have not been released by Google, likely to prevent further exploitation by attackers. However, it is known that the vulnerability was being actively exploited by attackers in targeted attacks against a small number of users.
The Attacks
Google has not released many details about the specific attacks that were exploiting this vulnerability. However, they have stated that the attacks were “targeted attacks” against a small number of users. This indicates that the attackers were likely using phishing emails or other social engineering techniques to convince users to visit a malicious website that exploited the vulnerability.
The attackers could use the vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the victim’s computer, which could then be used to steal sensitive information, install malware, or take other malicious actions. The targeted nature of these attacks suggests that the attackers had specific goals in mind, such as stealing corporate secrets or other sensitive information.
Google Chrome Version 105.0.5195.102 Update Details
Google’s quick response to this volatility is a testament to their commitment to providing a sits browsing experience to their users. The fix was released just six days after the vulnerability was reported, which is a remarkably quick turnaround time for a fix of this nature.
The fix is included in Chrome Version 105.0.5195.102 of the Chrome browser, which is available for download now. Chrome users are urged to update to this version as soon as possible to protect themselves against this vulnerability.
How To Release Google Chrome Patch 105.0.5195.102
If you are a developer or IT administrator responsible for releasing the Google Chrome patch 105.0.5195.102 to your organization or users, here are the steps you can follow:
- Determine the Scope of the Release First, determine the scope of the release. Will it be for a small group of users, a specific department, or the entire organization? Understanding the scope will help you plan the release and ensure that everyone who needs the patch receives it.
- Test the Patch Before releasing the patch, it is important to test it thoroughly to ensure that it works correctly and does not cause any unexpected issues. You can test the patch by deploying it to a small group of test users or by using a testing environment.
- Prepare for Deployment Once you have tested the patch and are confident that it is ready for release, it is time to prepare for deployment. This includes creating a plan for how the patch will be deployed, identifying any dependencies or prerequisites, and communicating the release plan to the appropriate stakeholders.
- Deploy the Patch There are several ways to deploy the Google Chrome patch. One option is to use a software deployments tool, such as Microsoft SCCM or PDQ Deploy. These tools allow you to deploy the patch to multiple computers at once and can automate the process.
Another option is to deploy the patch manually by downloading it from the Google website. And installing it on each computer individually. This option is more time-consuming but may be necessary for smaller organizations or users. Who is not connected to the corporate network?
Verify the Deployment
Once the patch has been deployed, it is important to verify. It has been installed correctly and all affected systems have received the patch. You can verify the deployment by checking the version number of Google Chrome Version 105.0.5195.102 on each computer. Or by using a patch management tool to confirm that the patch has been installed.
Communicate the Release
Finally, it is important to communicate the release of the patch to your users or stakeholders. This can be done through email, a company-wide announcement, or by updating your organization’s IT documentation.
Updating Chrome
If you are a Chrome user, it is highly recommended that you update to Google Chrome Version 105.0.5195.102 as soon as possible. To do this, open Chrome and click on the three-dot menu in the top right corner. From there, click on “Help” and then “About Google Chrome”. Chrome will check for updates and automatically download and install the latest version.
It is also important to keep in mind that zero-day vulnerabilities like this one are unfortunately quite common in software. Be vigilant when clicking on links or downloading files from the internet.
Conclusion
Google’s quick response to this zero-day vulnerability is a testament to its commitment. To provide a secure browsing experience to their users. The specific details of the vulnerability have not been released. But it is known that the vulnerability allowed attackers to execute arbitrary code on the victim’s computer.
Chrome users are urged to update to Google Chrome Version 105.0.5195.102 as soon as possible to protect themselves against this vulnerability. It is also important to keep your software up to date and to be cautious. When clicking on links or downloading files from the internet to help protect yourself against these types of attacks.
