Google Chrome 144 update patches high-severity V8 vulnerability — update recommended
Google has released a new Stable-channel update for Chrome 144 to address a high-severity security flaw in the browser’s core JavaScript engine, V8.
The vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2026-1220, is a race condition that could be exploited through specially crafted web content. If abused, it may lead to memory corruption, browser crashes, or even arbitrary code execution—a serious concern given Chrome’s global user base.
Because V8 powers nearly all JavaScript execution in Chrome, this flaw impacts core web functionality. Google has classified it as high severity, underlining the potential risk to everyday users as well as enterprises.
The update (Chrome 144.0.7559.96/.97) began rolling out on January 21, 2026, across Windows, macOS, and Linux, and will reach all users over the coming days. Google is limiting public technical details until most systems are patched—a standard move to reduce real-world exploitation.
For organizations managing Chrome at scale, this update should be treated as a priority security patch.
Users can confirm their version by navigating to Settings → About Chrome, where updates are automatically checked and applied.
The takeaway: browser updates aren’t just feature releases—they’re critical security defenses. Staying current is one of the simplest ways to reduce exposure to emerging threats.
