CVE-2025-12911 is a vulnerability identified in Google Chrome prior to version 140.0.7339.80, related to an inappropriate implementation in the browser's Permissions API. The flaw allows a remote attacker to craft malicious HTML pages that can perform UI spoofing attacks. UI spoofing involves presenting fake or misleading user interface elements that appear legitimate, potentially tricking users into performing actions they did not intend, such as granting permissions or divulging sensitive information. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-451, which relates to improper implementation of permissions or access controls. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.3 (medium severity), with an attack vector of network (remote), low attack complexity, no privileges required, but requiring user interaction to trigger the spoofed UI. The impact primarily affects the integrity of user interactions, as confidentiality and availability remain unaffected. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and no official patch links were provided, but the issue is resolved in Chrome version 140.0.7339.80. This vulnerability underscores the importance of secure UI design and permission handling in browsers to prevent social engineering attacks that leverage UI deception.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk mainly through social engineering attacks that exploit UI spoofing to deceive users into granting permissions or performing unintended actions. While it does not directly compromise data confidentiality or system availability, successful exploitation can lead to downstream impacts such as unauthorized access or data leakage if users are tricked into granting excessive permissions. Organizations with large user bases relying on Chrome browsers, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, may face increased risk due to the potential for targeted phishing campaigns leveraging this vulnerability. The requirement for user interaction means that user awareness and training are critical factors in mitigating impact. Additionally, organizations that delay browser updates increase their exposure window. Given the widespread use of Chrome in Europe, the vulnerability could affect a broad range of users and systems, potentially undermining trust in web applications and services.

1. Immediate update of all Google Chrome installations to version 140.0.7339.80 or later to ensure the vulnerability is patched. 2. Implement enterprise-wide browser update policies to enforce timely patching and reduce exposure windows. 3. Conduct user awareness training focused on recognizing suspicious UI elements and permission requests, emphasizing caution with unexpected prompts. 4. Deploy browser security extensions or policies that restrict or monitor permission requests to reduce the risk of unauthorized permission grants. 5. Utilize web filtering and email security solutions to detect and block phishing attempts that may leverage this vulnerability. 6. Monitor user behavior and permission grants for anomalies that could indicate exploitation attempts. 7. Engage in regular security assessments of web applications to ensure they do not inadvertently facilitate UI spoofing or similar attacks. 8. Coordinate with IT and security teams to maintain visibility on browser versions and compliance status across the organization.