Overview
CVE-2025-13639 is a security vulnerability affecting Google Chrome’s WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) implementation. This flaw, reported on December 2nd, 2025, could be exploited by a remote attacker to perform arbitrary read/write operations on a user’s system. The vulnerability stems from an inappropriate implementation within WebRTC in Google Chrome versions prior to 143.0.7499.41. While the Chromium security team has classified this as a “Low” severity issue, it’s crucial to understand the potential impact and take appropriate mitigation steps.
Technical Details
The specific nature of the “inappropriate implementation” within WebRTC isn’t fully disclosed in the public advisories. However, the description indicates a weakness that can be triggered through a crafted HTML page. This suggests the vulnerability lies in how Chrome processes or handles specific WebRTC functionalities or data structures when rendering content from a malicious website. Successful exploitation would allow the attacker to bypass security measures and gain the ability to read and write arbitrary data within the context of the Chrome process. This could potentially lead to information disclosure, code execution, or other malicious activities.
CVSS Analysis
Currently, a CVSS score has not been assigned to CVE-2025-13639. The absence of a CVSS score makes it difficult to quantify the risk accurately. However, given the “Low” severity rating by the Chromium security team and the potential for arbitrary read/write, organizations and individuals should still address this vulnerability promptly.
Possible Impact
Although rated as low severity, the possibility of arbitrary read/write access opens the door for various malicious activities. A successful exploit could allow an attacker to:
- Read sensitive data: Access cookies, browsing history, or other data stored by Chrome.
- Modify browser settings: Alter settings to redirect traffic or install malicious extensions.
- Potentially escalate privileges: While unlikely given the low severity, in specific circumstances and chained with other vulnerabilities, this could lead to more significant system compromise.
The impact is magnified if the affected user has elevated privileges on their system or if the vulnerability is combined with other exploits.
Mitigation/Patch Steps
The primary mitigation step is to update Google Chrome to version 143.0.7499.41 or later. Google has addressed this vulnerability in that version. To update Chrome:
- Open Chrome.
- Click the three dots (menu) in the upper-right corner.
- Go to Help > About Google Chrome.
- Chrome will automatically check for and install updates.
- Relaunch Chrome to apply the updates.
In addition to updating, consider the following best practices:
- Be cautious when visiting unfamiliar websites.
- Use a reputable antivirus or security software.
- Keep your operating system and other software up to date.
