Chrome 72 Update
The US Federal National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center (NCCIC) announced that Google released a new Chrome web browser update. All Chrome users are advised to patch their machines and mobile devices with the latest version of Chrome web browser as it fixes some security issues with the browser. The latest Chrome version is 72.0.3626.81 for Windows, Mac, and Linux. The latest mobile version is 72.0.3626.76 for Android users. These updates to Chrome addresses multiple vulnerabilities that a hacker could exploit to take control of an out-of-date system.
In late January Google promoted Chrome 72 to the stable channel for Android, Windows, Mac, and Linux systems. Chrome 72 patches 58 cyber security bugs. The updated browser will roll out over the coming weeks. The average Chrome desktop user will not notice any new user interface changes including functionality and visuals.
Chrome 72 Android Update
The Chrome update was rolled out to Android users prior to the update for desktop users. Mobile Chrome 72, version 72.0.3626.76, for Android was released earlier than desktop versions. Like the desktop update, the mobile browser will be rolled out in the course of weeks, but via the Google Play store. This release includes stability and performance improvements. The mobile Chrome update has a few user interface changes that many Android users are unhappy with. Options to open and close tabs have been moved making the user interface confusing.
Mobile Chrome 72 also aims to make incognito mode more private on Android devices. Screenshots are not allowed. If you are watching a video in incognito mode, the tab no longer shows the websites name or icon during video playback. The tab is generic with the Incognito tab system notification will just noting that “A site is playing media” along with a play/pause button and no other information
Chrome 72 Major Cyber Security Patches
Chrome 72 contains bug fixes, security updates, and feature enhancements. A significant cyber security patch is the beginning of the end for TLS 1.0 support. Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a web protocol that provides end-to-end encrypted communications security between web browsers and servers. TLS is used for internet data and secure online transactions. Websites employ TLS to keep customer and credit card information secure from hackers.
TLS is the successor to its better-known predecessor, Secure Socket Layer more commonly known as SSL. TLS 1.0 is a twenty-year-old internet encryption protocol. Chrome supports its successor, TLS 1.2 and 1.3. Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Opera all support TLS 1.2. Chrome and Firefox also support the newer TLS 1.3. When Google rolls out Chrome 81 which is expected in early 2020, Chrome will no longer connect to websites supporting only TLS 1.0 and 1.1.
How Do I Know if I Have the Latest Version of Chrome?
How to check which version of Chrome your machine is running – Desktop
- On your computer, open Chrome
- At the top right, click the three vertical dots
- Choose Help
- Choose More
- Choose About Google Chrome
How to check which version of Chrome your machine is running – Mobile Android Chrome
- On your phone, open Chrome
- At the top right, click the three vertical dots
- Choose Settings
- Scroll down and tap About Google Chrome
- Compare the version number to the latest stable release number
How Do I Install the Latest Version of Chrome?
To Update Google Chrome – Desktop Version
- On your computer, open Chrome
- At the top right, click the three vertical dots
- Choose Help
- Choose More
- Choose About Google Chrome
- Click Relaunch. If you don’t see this button, you’re on the latest version
Most users can just relaunch the browser to install the latest update
How Do You update Google on Android?
How To update Chrome on an Android device
- Open the Google Play Store app
- Search for Chrome
- If your phone is not using the latest version, the update button will show
- If you are up-to-date then the Launch button appears instead
