Google, Gimp patch high-risk security flaws -

Google has released security updates for the desktop version of Chrome to address several high-risk vulnerabilities, while developers of the open-source image editing software Gimp have also issued a security patch.

Germany’s Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has urged users to update both applications as soon as possible and verify that they are running the latest secure versions.

According to the BSI, attackers could exploit the Chrome vulnerabilities to bypass security protections, execute malicious code and potentially cause systems to crash. The attacks could be triggered when users visit specially crafted websites or open manipulated files.

Gimp users also face security risks when opening maliciously prepared image files. The vulnerabilities could allow attackers to execute unauthorised code on affected systems.

Google has released Chrome versions 151.0.7922.173 and 151.0.7922.174, depending on the operating system, while the latest secure version of Gimp is 3.2.4.

Chrome users can check their browser version by opening the “Help” and “About Google Chrome” section in the settings menu. The browser normally updates automatically, but users can also manually initiate the process. Windows users who installed Chrome through the Microsoft Store need to update it through the store.

Gimp users can check for updates through the “Help” and “About Gimp” menu options. The latest version can be downloaded from the official Gimp website or updated through the Microsoft Store if the software was originally installed there.

Cybersecurity officials are advising users not to delay the updates, as keeping software patched is an important step in protecting devices from attacks exploiting known vulnerabilities. –TS/ERMD

READ MORE