Threat detection

Critical Chrome Vulnerability (CVE-2025-2783) Exploited in Cyber-Espionage Campaign

OEMGoogle Chrome
SeverityHigh
CVSS8.3
CVEsCVE-2025-2783
Exploited in WildYes
Patch/Remediation AvailableYes
Advisory Version1.0

Overview

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an urgent advisory regarding the critical zero-day vulnerability, CVE-2025-2783, in Google Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers on Windows. This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild and has been added to CISA’s Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, urged immediate patching to prevent security breaches and unauthorized system access.

Vulnerability NameCVE IDProduct AffectedSeverityFixed Version
  Google Chromium Mojo Sandbox Escape Vulnerability  CVE-2025-2783  Google Chrome  High  134.0.6998.117/.118

Technical Summary

This high-severity vulnerability found in the Mojo framework of Chromium-based browsers including Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Opera, Brave etc. The vulnerability originates from a logic error that results in an incorrect handle being provided under certain conditions. This flaw allows attackers to bypass Chrome’s sandbox protections and potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected system.

Security researchers from Kaspersky discovered this zero-day vulnerability as part of an advanced cyber-espionage campaign dubbed “Operation ForumTroll.” The attack campaign targeted media outlets, educational institutions, and government organizations in Russia through highly personalized phishing emails.

The exploit chain is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal user interaction. Victims only need to click on a malicious link in a phishing email, after which the attack executes automatically without any additional action from the user. Once triggered, the exploit allows attackers to escape Chrome’s sandbox environment, leading to remote code execution and possible system compromise.

CVE IDSystem AffectedVulnerability DetailsImpact
    CVE-2025-2783    Google Chrome (Windows)    Incorrect handle provided in Mojo, allowing sandbox escape  Remote code execution, System Compromise

Remediation:

  • Google Chrome Patch Released: Google has released security updates in Chrome versions 134.0.6998.177/.178 to address this vulnerability. Users should update immediately.

General Recommendations:

  • Enable Automatic Updates: Ensure automatic updates are enabled in Google Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers to receive future security patches promptly.
  • Phishing Awareness Training: Organizations should educate employees on identifying and avoiding phishing emails to prevent exploitation.
  • Endpoint Security Measures: Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor and mitigate potential threats.
  • CISA Compliance for Federal Agencies: Federal agencies must adhere to CISA’s Binding Operational Directive (BOD) 22-01 to address known exploited vulnerabilities promptly.

Conclusion:

The exploitation of CVE-2025-2783 demonstrates the ongoing threat posed by sophisticated cyber-espionage activities.  Google has responded swiftly with a patch, and users are strongly advised to update their browsers immediately. Organizations should remain vigilant against phishing attempts and enhance their cybersecurity posture to mitigate similar threats in the future.

References:

Users of WhatsApp Exposed to Sophisticated Spyware Attack

The recent Spyware attack on WhatsApp users is linked to Israeli surveillance firm Paragon Solutions that targets journalists, activists, and civil society members using sophisticated “zero-click” hacking methods that require no user interaction.

Attack Confirmed By Meta

Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has officially acknowledged the attack, stating that the messaging platform was compromised by hackers deploying spyware. Following multiple reports of breaches, Meta informed Italy’s National Cybersecurity Agency, confirming that about 90 users across 24 countries were targeted.

The spyware attack came to light when Luca Casarini, a migrant rescue activist and co-founder of Mediterranea Saving Humans, and investigative journalist Francesco Cancellato, received an alert from WhatsApp, notifying their device had been infiltrated by spyware.

What is Spyware and what makes Spyware attack special?

Spyware is one of the most commonly used cyberattack methods used by hackers and makes it difficult to trace and identify by users and does some serious harm to networks. These data are used to track, steal, and sell user data, such as internet usage, credit card, and bank account details, or steal user credentials to spoof their identities.

As per Fortinet, Spyware is malicious software that enters a user’s computer, gathers data from the device and user, and sends it to third parties without their consent. A commonly accepted spyware definition is a strand of malware designed to access and damage a device without the user’s consent. 

How Zero-Click Hacking affect our Online Digital device

The Zero click hacking techniques was stunning for users which is not traceable

Unlike any other phishing attacks that require users to click on malicious links. In this method attackers infect a device without any action from the user. Such advanced tactics enable surveillance on a large scale, posing severe risks to privacy and security worldwide.

The revelation has reignited global concerns over digital espionage and unauthorized surveillance. Cybersecurity experts warn that the attack on WhatsApp underscores the vulnerabilities present in even the most widely used communication platforms. As investigations continue, users are urged to update their software regularly and remain vigilant against potential cyber threats.

Mobile spyware typically attacks mobile devices through three methods:

  • Flaws in operating systems: Attackers can exploit flaws in mobile operating systems that are typically opened up by holes in updates. 
  • Malicious applications: These typically lurk within legitimate applications that users download from websites rather than app stores.
  • Unsecured free Wi-Fi networks: Wi-Fi networks in public places like airports and cafes are often free and simple to sign in to, which makes them a serious security risk. Attackers can use these networks to spy on what connected users are doing.

Significant Cyber threat of Spyware

The Spyware attack left users fall prey to online digital attack and question on govt. surveillance which was taken seriously by Italy.Over the years Spyware  infected millions of devices, stealing sensitive information.

Some of the most devastating spyware cases helps us understand how serious this threat can be.

  • Pegasus — Spyware Behind Global Surveillance Scandals

Pegasus — developed by Israeli tech firm NSO Group — is the most high-profile spyware ever created. While it was originally marketed as a tool for governments to combat terrorism and criminal activities, it has become infamous for its misuse.

Reports have revealed that Pegasus has been used to monitor journalists, activists, and political figures, raising serious concerns about privacy and human rights violations. Its ability to infect devices without any user interaction makes it especially dangerous and difficult to detect.

  • FinSpy (FinFisher) — Government Tool for Full Device Control

FinSpy, also known as FinFisher, is a spyware tool developed by Gamma Group, a company based in Germany. Initially marketed to governments and law enforcement agencies as a way to combat crime and terrorism, FinSpy has been linked to unauthorized surveillance and there is concern about its use by oppressive regimes. The spyware is capable of targeting multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it versatile and difficult to escape.

  • GravityRAT — Cross-Border Espionage Targeting India

GravityRAT spyware was initially designed to target individuals in India. It’s believed to be linked to cyber espionage efforts originating from Pakistan. Its primary goal is to steal sensitive information, including files, contact lists, and user data.

GravityRAT typically spreads through phishing emails that trick users into downloading malicious attachments. Once the victim opens the file, the spyware silently installs itself, granting attackers control over the infected device.

  • DarkHotel — Targeting Business Travelers Through Hotel Wi-Fi

DarkHotel is a sophisticated spyware campaign that’s been active for over a decade, primarily targeting business travelers staying in luxury hotels. Discovered in 2007, this Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) has affected high-profile executives, government officials, and corporate leaders. The attackers aim to steal sensitive business information, like trade secrets and confidential documents, while victims are connected to hotel Wi-Fi networks.

  • Agent Tesla — Password and Keystroke Thief for Hire

Agent Tesla is technically classified as a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) and keylogger, though it has spyware-like functionalities. First discovered in 2014, Agent Tesla has gained notoriety for its ability to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials, keystrokes, and clipboard data. It can also take screenshots and extract information from email clients, web browsers, and other applications, making it a powerful tool for cybercriminals.

Scroll to top