Google Chrome is amplifying its defense against potential cyber threats. The tech giant recently announced adjustments to the security update pattern of its Chrome browser, aiming to fortify user protection.
Typically, Google rolls out a major Chrome version each month, accompanied by intermittent security updates. The previous routine was a security update every two weeks. But as per a fresh blog post, starting from Chrome version 116, users will see weekly security updates interposed between the major releases. For users, this means the notification bubble beside the profile picture, signaling new updates, will pop up more frequently.
Tackling Chrome’s Patch Gap
Chrome, akin to Microsoft Edge and numerous contemporary browsers, is backed by the open-source initiative, Chromium. This framework allows any individual to inspect its source code and even propose modifications or remedies for vulnerabilities. Post these fixes’ approval, they first see the light of day in Chrome’s Canary and Beta channels, serving as a testing ground for stability and compatibility. Subsequently, they’re dispatched to the general Chrome populace via the Stable channel.
This tiered release method, while effective in identifying and rectifying potential hitches, does create a ‘patch gap.’ This gap refers to the lag between the updates received by Canary and Beta users and the general users. Cyber attackers can exploit this window to discern and capitalize on security weak spots.
However, Google has been proactive in narrowing this gap. As highlighted by BleepingComputer, back in 2020, this gap spanned around 35 days. The shift to weekly updates is Google’s strategic move to further contract this gap.
Guidance on Chrome Security Maintenance
For Chrome users, the primary defense against cyber threats remains consistent and timely browser updates. Google simplifies this by offering a color-coded bubble next to one’s profile image, which reflects the age of an available update: green indicates an update from two days ago, orange means four days, and red signals a week-old update.
Users can effortlessly keep Chrome updated by following these color cues. However, there’s also the manual route. By navigating to the three dots near the profile image, selecting ‘Help’, then ‘About Google Chrome’, users can verify their browser’s version and initiate updates.
Supplementing this, users should equip their PCs or Macs with top-tier antivirus solutions, providing an added layer of protection.
Given Google Chrome’s dominance in the browser space, owning 63.5% of the global market share as per Statcounter, it remains a prime target for hackers. Google’s move towards weekly security patches aims to reduce vulnerabilities, ensuring a safer browsing experience for users.
