How to Spot Fake Chrome Updates: Malware Campaigns Resurface in 2025
What Are Fake Chrome Updates – and How Do They Work? Cybercriminals are reviving a classic trick: showing fake Chrome update notifications via pop-ups on compromised websites. These prompts mimic legitimate Chrome alerts, complete with Chrome logos and urgent messages luring users to download a “Chrome update.” What seems like a routine browser update is often a ZIP or MSIX file packed with malicious PowerShell scripts, trojans, or info stealers. Once opened, attackers bypass file-based detection via in-memory tactics, deploy payloads like SpyNote, FrigidStealer, or Python backdoors, and then move laterally within networks. In January 2025, FakeUpdates campaigns hit 4% of businesses, contributing to ransomware chains via affiliates like RansomHub. Why It Matters: Chrome is Everyone’s Browser Chrome is the world’s most-used browser, making fake updates a high-impact entry point. These updates bypass typical antivirus software using drive‑by downloads and in‑memory execution. Consequences? Ransomware, info theft, and cryptojacking often happen before users even realize they’ve been compromised. Key Threat Examples in 2025 1. Fake Updates Surge Checkpoint found FakeUpdates actively distributing custom backdoors and enabling ransomware within enterprise networks almost 4% being hit in January 2025 alone. Many campaigns used AI-obfuscated code. 2. Visory’s Novel PowerShell Campaign Fake Chrome errors prompt users to download a ZIP with a .ps1 script that installs malware in memory with no disk trace, no antivirus alert. 3. FrigidStealer on Mac & Windows Compromised websites inject fake Chrome or Safari update banners; once clicked, they install password-stealing malware via DMG or MSI, stealing credentials and cookies. The Warning Signs of a Fake Chrome Update Unexpected pop-up on a non-Chrome website Too-good-to-be-true message, even while your browser is up to date Manual download prompts instead of automatic installation File names like release.zip, GoogleChrome‑x86.msix, update.exe, or bizarre double extensions Prompts for admin rights, installer launch, or PowerShell commands Browser sluggishness, CPU spikes, or unexpected behavior may follow. How to Protect Yourself (and Your Network) Always use Chrome’s “About” menu (Settings → About) for updates to avoid random pop-ups. Keep your browser updated to patch zero-days, Version 137.0.7151.68 for CVE‑2025‑2783, for example. Use in-browser update alerts only avoid external prompts requiring manual installation. Install endpoint detection solutions that flag script-based memory attacks. Enable DNS filtering/UAC policies that block downloads from suspicious domains. Train users to spot fake updates: no external update buttons in browsers, no PowerShell scripts, and no manual installer execution. Real-World Hits to Learn From Brokewell targeted Android users via fake Chrome update pop-ups that granted malware overlay permissions to drain bank accounts. Operation ForumTroll exploited zero-day CVE‑2025‑2783 via phishing links—no update pop-up involved, but Chrome users were compromised through email vectors. Final Takeaway Fake Chrome updates aren’t just annoying, they’re a powerful malware delivery method. In 2025, attackers are doubling down with clever pop-ups, AI-generated scripts, and in-memory attacks. Staying safe means verifying updates via Chrome itself, deploying proactive detection, and educating users continuously.