CVE-2025-12431 is a vulnerability identified in Google Chrome prior to version 142.0.7444.59 related to the inappropriate implementation of navigation restrictions within Chrome Extensions. Specifically, the flaw allows a maliciously crafted Chrome extension, once installed by a user, to bypass navigation restrictions that are intended to limit the extension's ability to navigate or redirect browser tabs or windows. This bypass can be exploited remotely by an attacker who persuades a user to install the malicious extension, without requiring any prior privileges or user interaction beyond installation. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-288, which relates to improper authentication or authorization mechanisms. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.5, indicating a medium severity with the vector string AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:N, meaning the attack can be launched over the network with low attack complexity, no privileges or user interaction required, affecting confidentiality and integrity to a limited extent but not availability. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no official patches or updates are linked yet, though updating to version 142.0.7444.59 or later is implied as the fix. The vulnerability poses a risk primarily by enabling malicious extensions to perform unauthorized navigation actions, potentially leading to phishing, data leakage, or manipulation of user sessions within the browser context.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized navigation or redirection within the browser environment, which may facilitate phishing attacks, session hijacking, or unauthorized data access through malicious extensions. Organizations relying heavily on Chrome for daily operations, especially those using extensions for productivity or security, could see confidentiality and integrity impacts if attackers exploit this flaw. While availability is not affected, the risk of data leakage or manipulation of web sessions can have regulatory and reputational consequences, particularly under GDPR and other data protection laws. The lack of required privileges or user interaction beyond extension installation lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing risk in environments where extension installation policies are lax or users have freedom to install extensions. This can be particularly impactful in sectors such as finance, government, and critical infrastructure where browser-based workflows are common and sensitive data is handled.

1. Immediately update Google Chrome to version 142.0.7444.59 or later once available to ensure the vulnerability is patched. 2. Implement strict extension management policies using enterprise tools such as Google Workspace Admin Console or Microsoft Endpoint Manager to whitelist approved extensions and block all others. 3. Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted extensions and enforce least privilege principles to restrict extension installation rights. 4. Monitor browser activity for unusual navigation patterns or unauthorized redirects that could indicate exploitation attempts. 5. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting malicious extension behavior. 6. Regularly audit installed extensions across the organization to identify and remove any unauthorized or suspicious ones. 7. Consider deploying browser isolation technologies for high-risk users to limit the impact of malicious extensions. 8. Stay informed of updates from Google regarding patches or further advisories related to this vulnerability.