How To Update Your Google Chrome Browser To Avoid Getting Hacked

Google Chrome’s new version 99.0.4844.84 for Mac, Windows, and Linux has been released late last week. This should improve the security of the web browser and avoid users from being targeted by cybercriminals. All users are advised to update their Chrome browsers as soon as possible.

Security is crucial for Google Chrome as it’s the most popular browser in the world with over 3.3 billion annual users as of 2021. While security patches and updates are regular, an issue has since been exploited by many to infect devices with malware including viruses and malicious software.

What's wrong with Google Chrome?

The Google Chrome vulnerability CVE-2022-1096 is a high severity Chrome V8 weakness in the JavaScript Engine. Put simply, this allows attackers to execute remote arbitrary coding that causes denial of service attacks. As mentioned, it can also infect devices with malware and ransomware.

From the update released by Google, it’s been abused in different scenarios and they’re aware of it. The new update should change this flaw moving forward. They’ve not yet released specific information to third-party sources about the bugs and restrictions until most users update their web browsers.

“Access to bug details and links may be kept restricted until a majority of users are updated with a fix,” Google said. 

“We will also retain restrictions if the bug exists in a third-party library that other projects similarly depend on, but haven't yet fixed.”

It’s not the first time Chrome has patched this year

Just this year, Google has patched CVE-2022-0609. It’s a vulnerability described as “use after free in animation,” which has also been abused for a while. However, not much is known about this weakness, including whether it will be picked up by antivirus software.

How to update your Google Chrome browser

Updating your web browser is important to keep you safe and secure from cyberattacks and cybercrimes. Otherwise, you risk compromising your data and personal information. If you haven’t updated your Google Chrome on all your devices just yet, here’s how.

Go to:

1. Chrome Menu
2. Help
3. About Google Chrome

It should update automatically once you’re directed to the page. After the latest version loads, simply click ‘Relaunch’ for the update to take effect. Then, you’re all set!

Note: The latest version has been out for several weeks now, but it may take time before it reflects on your Google Chrome. If you don’t see updates yet, just come back after a few days or weeks.

Read: How Much Is The Average Internet Bill In New Zealand?

Tips to secure your internet connection

While relying on your browser’s security patches and updates is fine, there are quick and easy tips to make your internet connection, your devices, and your user experience more secure. This doesn’t only apply to Google Chrome, but also to other web browsers like Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge, and more.

Get a VPN

VPN does many more things than simply allowing you to stream geo-located content. It tunnels your connection to appear in another country, keeping your specific location private. This comes in handy, especially when downloading content online.

Read: Starlink NZ: Where Is It Available In New Zealand?

Have a family filter

If you have young kids, having a family filter is essential. This can limit their exposure to adult, age-restricted, and mature content as these can be difficult to monitor on your own. For streaming subscriptions, make sure to set up kids’ accounts as well.

Switch to a different plan

Different plans have different security inclusions. This is already included in your monthly subscription, making it convenient especially for non-techie Kiwis. If you want to find the best broadband plan for you, just use glimp’s free comparison tool.