In response to user reports, Malwarebytes swiftly released a remedy to address a critical problem affecting its customers' systems. Following the installation of the recent Windows 11 22H2 KB5027231 cumulative update, Google Chrome users were left without a functional user interface.
Malwarebytes took prompt action to acknowledge and resolve this issue caused by the Patch Tuesday cumulative updates released earlier this week.
The clash between Google Chrome and Malwarebytes started due to the anti-exploit module of Malwarebytes. This module acts as an obstacle, preventing the web browser from loading properly or causing crashes after the installation of the KB5027231 update.
To address this known issue, affected customers were advised to temporarily resolve the problem by disabling Chrome's entry in the list of protected applications within their Malwarebytes product.
Malwarebytes has taken the necessary steps to rectify the conflict between the Chrome web browser and up-to-date Windows 11 systems. The company's fix now allows Chrome to be recognised as a protected application across all Windows 11 devices. However, it's important to note that the Anti-exploit code will not be applied to all Chrome processes, as specified by the company.
To obtain the fix, ensure that you have Component version 1.0.2047 and Malwarebytes version 4.5.31.270. The update will be automatically applied over time. However, if you prefer to update manually, follow these steps: open Malwarebytes, click on Settings, then select About, and finally, click on Check for updates.
Malwarebytes has confirmed that the update will be automatically implemented for new installations. For users who utilised the temporary workaround, it is advised to re-enable the anti-exploit protection for Chrome once the fix has been successfully installed.
To restore Chrome as a protected application in your Malwarebytes product, follow these steps:
- Open Malwarebytes.
- Click on the Settings wheel located on the top right corner.
- Select the Security tab.
- Under Exploit Protection, click on Manage protected applications.
- Toggle the switch for Google Chrome (including plug-ins) to the "on" position.
- Click on Done to save the changes.
According to user reports, it was discovered that the web browser would fail to open when both the Cisco Secure Endpoint and WatchGuard exploit prevention engines were enabled following the installation of KB5027231.
Although a fix from Cisco and WatchGuard is still pending release, customers facing this issue are advised to temporarily disable anti-exploit protection or designate Chrome as the default web browser within the Settings menu by navigating to "Select Default Browser."
By following these steps, the web browser can be restored on Windows 11 systems experiencing the impact.
In conclusion, the conflict between the KB5027231 update, Cisco Secure Endpoint, and WatchGuard exploit prevention engines has presented a challenge for users of Google Chrome on Windows 11 systems. While a fix from Cisco and WatchGuard is awaited, affected customers have been provided with temporary solutions to revive their web browsing experience. By either disabling the anti-exploit protection or designating Chrome as the default browser, users can mitigate the issue until an official resolution becomes available.
As technology companies continue to work towards addressing compatibility issues, it is crucial for users to stay informed and follow recommended steps to ensure a smooth browsing experience while maintaining system security.
