June 4, 2025 | New Delhi — A newly discovered browser vulnerability in Google Chrome has raised widespread security concerns, with cybersecurity experts warning that billions of users may be vulnerable to data theft. The issue, revealed by security researchers and reported by TechRadar Pro, affects how Chrome handles certain browser extensions—potentially allowing malicious actors to extract sensitive information such as passwords, browsing history, and session data.

Google Chrome, which accounts for over 65% of global desktop browser usage, is widely used by both individuals and enterprises. The scale of the risk makes the vulnerability particularly urgent for users who rely on browser-based workflows.

Browser Extensions at the Center of Risk

According to early assessments, the flaw stems from the way Chrome’s extension system interacts with browser data. Under specific conditions, malicious extensions can bypass permission settings and gain access to private user data. Experts believe the issue is related to weaknesses in how Chrome validates and monitors extension activities, especially those requesting broad data permissions.

While Google has not yet disclosed full technical details, preliminary findings indicate that attackers can embed malicious code into extensions that appear benign—allowing them to extract data without user awareness.

Early Signs of Exploitation

Cybersecurity firm Guardio Labs reported that the vulnerability may already be under limited exploitation. Several Chrome extensions masquerading as productivity tools were observed engaging in suspicious activity that involved collecting browsing and session information.

“Users often install extensions without reviewing permissions. That’s where the danger lies—malicious actors hide behind useful-looking tools,” said a security analyst familiar with the issue.

Browser-based attacks have grown in sophistication, and vulnerabilities like this reflect the broader shift from traditional malware to more subtle methods of gaining access to user data.

Google Responds to the Threat

In response to the findings, Google has issued a statement confirming that its Chrome Security Team is investigating the reports and working on a patch. The company has advised users to update their browsers to the latest version and avoid installing extensions from unverified developers.

“We are actively working on resolving the issue and improving extension monitoring within the Chrome Web Store,” a Google spokesperson said.

Google has also initiated a review of extensions currently listed on its platform, especially those that request permissions to access all website data. Developers may be required to undergo additional checks or provide stronger justification for broad data access.

Safety Measures for Users

Until a patch is rolled out, cybersecurity professionals are urging users to take precautionary steps:

• Disable or remove non-essential extensions
• Review browser permissions regularly
• Keep Chrome updated to the latest version
• Use antivirus software with browser protection features
• Avoid downloading extensions from unknown or suspicious developers

Enterprise IT teams are also advised to implement group policies that control which extensions employees can install, particularly in sensitive industries such as finance, healthcare, and government.

A Growing Concern for Web Security

This incident underscores the growing risk posed by browser-based vulnerabilities as more of the digital economy shifts to cloud platforms and web tools. With a rise in remote work and reliance on browser-integrated apps, the attack surface for cybercriminals has widened significantly.

Security analysts believe that this discovery will prompt not just Chrome, but other major browsers like Edge, Firefox, and Brave to re-evaluate their extension ecosystems.

“There’s a false sense of safety around browser extensions. They’re often treated like apps—but without the same level of scrutiny. That needs to change,” one cybersecurity expert said.

What’s Next?

Google has not provided a timeline for when a permanent fix will be deployed. However, the company has emphasized that protecting user data remains a top priority and that updates will be released in phases as the investigation continues.

As users await a comprehensive fix, the situation serves as a critical reminder: browser security is now central to data privacy and digital safety. In an increasingly connected world, even small vulnerabilities can carry large consequences.