Users of the widely used Google Chrome browser in North America and beyond were urged to update the application after a report of critical security gaps. The advisory came from the Indian government’s CERT-In agency and circulated through various tech outlets, including BGR. The core warning remains clear: older Chrome builds could be exposed to attacks that steal data, track activity, or take control of a device if left unpatched.
According to CERT-In, desktop Chrome versions before 101.0.4951.41 contain flaws that Cybercriminals may exploit. The agency emphasized the urgency of updating to Chrome 101.0.4951.41 or newer across all supported operating systems. In Canada and the United States, many users rely on Chrome for daily tasks, from work communications to banking and personal browsing. Keeping the browser current helps reduce the likelihood of successful intrusions and minimizes the risk of data loss, especially for those who store passwords or sensitive information in the browser or synced accounts across devices.
Security professionals note that the fixes in the 101.0.4951.41 update address a set of vulnerabilities that attackers could abuse without user interaction. Applying the update closes these entry points, making it harder for malware to compromise a computer or exfiltrate personal data. While no software is perfectly secure, staying up to date is one of the most effective defense measures. Users in North America should verify that their Chrome installations are running the latest available version and enable automatic updates if possible to ensure future patches install without delay.
Beyond patching, users are advised to adopt routine security practices. This includes reviewing installed extensions for suspicious activity, using a reputable password manager, enabling two‑factor authentication where available, and maintaining current operating system security updates. If a device is part of a corporate network, IT teams should enforce centralized patch management and monitor for any indicators of unusual activity that might signal an attempted breach. The combination of timely updates and good digital hygiene reduces exposure to threats that target outdated software.
In related privacy measures, Google has recently refined Chrome’s ad settings. The platform now allows users to hide certain sensitive ad categories such as dating, pregnancy, and weight loss. This change aims to give users more control over ad relevance and reduce exposure to content that could be distressing or inappropriate in some contexts. For users managing multiple devices across Canada and the United States, the setting can help tailor advertising experiences while maintaining broad online safety standards. At the same time, it remains important to keep software security top of mind, since strong defenses are the backbone of a trustworthy browsing environment. (Attribution: CERT-In advisory; Google’s product update notes)