Type Confusion Vulnerability in Google Chrome
CVE-2026-85046
Key Information:
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What is CVE-2026-85046?
CVE-2026-85046 is a type confusion vulnerability that affects Google Chrome, specifically within the V8 JavaScript engine. This critical flaw permits remote attackers to execute arbitrary code within the browser’s sandbox, which is typically designed to isolate potentially harmful code from affecting the user's system. The vulnerability exists in versions of Chrome prior to 152.0.7977.82, emphasizing the importance of maintaining updated software to mitigate security risks effectively. If successfully exploited, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access and control over the affected system, resulting in the potential theft of sensitive information and compromise of application security.
Potential impact of CVE-2026-85046
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Remote Code Execution: The primary risk associated with CVE-2026-85046 is the ability for attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely. This can allow malicious actors to take control of user devices, leading to severe consequences such as data leaks, identity theft, or further exploitation of associated systems.
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Data Breach Risks: Successful exploitation of this vulnerability can result in extensive data breaches, where an attacker may gain access to private user information, financial records, or confidential business data, potentially causing significant reputational and financial damage to affected organizations.
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Increased Attack Surface: By allowing malware to leverage the browser environment, CVE-2026-85046 can serve as a foothold for further attacks within the organization's network. This can lead to the spread of advanced persistent threats (APTs), with attackers gaining a deeper level of access and control, hence complicating incident response.
CISA has reported CVE-2026-85046
CISA provides regional cyber and physical services to support security and resilience across the United States. CISA monitor the most dangerious vulnerabilities and have identifed CVE-2026-85046 as being exploited but is not known by the CISA to be used in ransomware campaigns. This is subject to change at pace as recent news articles suggest the vulnerability is being used by ransomware groups.
The CISA's recommendation is: Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicable BOD 26-04 guidance for cloud services or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable. Stakeholders are responsible for evaluating each asset's internet exposure and ensuring adherence to BOD 26-04 patching guidelines.
Affected Version(s)
Chrome 152.0.7977.82
Exploit Proof of Concept (PoC)
PoC code is written by security researchers to demonstrate the vulnerability can be exploited. PoC code is also a key component for weaponization which could lead to ransomware.
News Articles
Arabian PostCVE-2026-85046China-linked hackers deploy chained Chrome-Windows zero-day exploits
China-linked threat actors have been caught chaining two Google Chrome flaws with a Windows kernel vulnerability to compromise selected targets including
2 weeks ago
TechtimesFour Chinese Spy Groups Hacked US NGOs and Aerospace Firms With Same Exploit Kit
BlueMoon exploit kit, shared by four China-linked spy groups in 12 days, chains Chrome and Windows zero-days to hand attackers full control of a victim’s PC with one phishing link click. Proofpoint’s
2 weeks ago
References
EPSS Score
48% chance of being exploited in the next 30 days.
CVSS V3.1
Timeline
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Used in Ransomware
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Vulnerability reached the number 1 worldwide trending spot
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Vulnerability started trending
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Public PoC available
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Exploit known to exist
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CISA Reported
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First article discovered by Securityweek
Vulnerability published
Vulnerability Reserved