NITDA Issues Urgent Warning Over Critical Google Chrome Vulnerability
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has issued an urgent alert regarding a critical security vulnerability found in the Google Chrome browser. The flaw, identified as CVE-2024-797, was recently discovered by Google and is reportedly being actively exploited by cyber attackers.
This vulnerability, classified as a “type confusion” flaw, is located in Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine, which is crucial for processing JavaScript files. The flaw arises from the browser’s misinterpretation of data types, resulting in memory corruption.
Consequently, attackers could exploit this vulnerability to execute malicious programs on devices that have not been updated to the latest version of Chrome.Through its Emergency Readiness and Response Team (CERRT), NITDA has warned of severe consequences if the vulnerability is not addressed.
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“The vulnerability enables attackers to potentially take full control of affected systems by exploiting memory corruption caused by the misinterpretation of data types. This could allow attackers to bypass security protocols, execute malicious code, and even cause system crashes. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered simply by visiting a malicious website,” NITDA stated.
To mitigate this threat, NITDA urges all Google Chrome users to immediately update their browsers to the latest versions: 128.0.6613.84/.85 for Windows and macOS, and 128.0.6613.84 for Linux. Users can check for updates by going to the Chrome menu, selecting “Help,” and then clicking on “About Google Chrome” to apply any available updates.
The agency also advises users of Chromium-based browsers, such as Microsoft Edge, Brave, Opera, and Vivaldi, to apply the necessary updates as soon as they become available.
NITDA emphasizes that timely updates are essential to protect against potential exploits and ensure the security of personal and organizational systems. This warning is the latest in a series of alerts about escalating cyber threats targeting internet users in Nigeria and worldwide.
The increasing number of security advisories issued by cybersecurity agencies in recent months reflects the growing sophistication and frequency of cyber attacks.
Exploiting browser vulnerabilities has become a common tactic among cybercriminals to infiltrate systems and steal sensitive information.As cyber threats continue to evolve, NITDA underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and implementing proactive cybersecurity measures to safeguard against these ongoing risks.