A cybersecurity researcher has released a tool that effectively bypasses Google’s App-Bound encryption system, which was designed to enhance the security of saved credentials in the Chrome web browser. Named “Chrome-App-Bound-Encryption-Decryption,” the tool was developed by Alexander Hagenah after he noted that others were discovering similar methods to exploit the newly implemented security features. This public availability of the bypass poses a significant risk for users who store sensitive information in Chrome, as it allows malicious actors to extract credentials that were intended to be protected by the encryption.
Google introduced App-Bound encryption in July 2024 as a safeguard against infostealer malware. This mechanism encrypts cookies using a Windows service that runs with SYSTEM privileges, making it difficult for malware running under user permissions to access decrypted data. Google’s goal was to provide an additional layer of security, requiring attackers to elevate their privileges to gain access to sensitive cookies. However, just a couple of months later, several infostealer operations reportedly found ways to circumvent this protection, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the cybersecurity landscape.
Hagenah’s tool specifically targets Chrome’s Local State file, which stores encrypted keys. By leveraging Chrome’s internal COM-based IElevator service, the tool can decrypt these keys, allowing attackers to access sensitive data like cookies, passwords, and potentially payment information in the future. To utilize the tool, users must place the executable in the Chrome installation directory, a step that requires administrative privileges. Unfortunately, many Windows users often operate with administrative accounts, making it relatively easy for cybercriminals to execute such attacks.
In response to the release of the bypass tool, Google acknowledged the ongoing “cat and mouse” dynamic between security engineers and cybercriminals. While the requirement for admin privileges signifies a raised barrier to accessing the data, it has not deterred information-stealing operations. In fact, the frequency of attacks targeting Chrome users has increased in recent months, exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities and using deceptive tactics to lure victims. Google continues to work on enhancing its security measures, but the introduction of Hagenah’s tool underscores the need for users to remain vigilant about their online security and the inherent risks associated with storing sensitive data in web browsers.
