CVE-2012-10032 in Maxthon3 Browser
Summary
by MITRE • 08/05/2025
Maxthon3 version 3.2.2 build 1000 and prior are vulnerable to cross context scripting (XCS) via the about:history page. The browser’s trusted zone improperly handles injected script content, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript in a privileged context. This flaw enables modification of browser configuration and execution of arbitrary code through Maxthon’s exposed DOM APIs, including maxthon.program.Program.launch() and maxthon.io.writeDataURL(). Exploitation requires user interaction, typically by visiting a malicious webpage that triggers the injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-10032 represents a critical cross-context scripting flaw in Maxthon3 browser versions prior to 3.3, operating under the CWE-749 weakness category that encompasses dangerous use of potentially untrusted data in a privileged context. This security defect stems from the browser's inadequate handling of script content within its trusted zone, specifically affecting the about:history page which serves as an entry point for malicious script injection. The flaw exploits the browser's trust model by allowing untrusted script content to be executed within a privileged execution context, fundamentally undermining the security boundaries that separate user-generated content from browser-internal operations.
The technical exploitation mechanism relies on the improper sanitization of content within Maxthon's trusted zone, where injected JavaScript code can leverage exposed DOM APIs to perform unauthorized operations. Attackers can utilize the maxthon.program.Program.launch() function to execute arbitrary programs on the victim's system, while maxthon.io.writeDataURL() enables file manipulation through the browser's I/O subsystem. These APIs expose a direct pathway for attackers to bypass normal security restrictions, as they operate within the browser's privileged context where normal access controls are relaxed. The vulnerability requires user interaction through visiting a malicious webpage, typically employing social engineering techniques to诱导 users into triggering the injection payload.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with comprehensive access to the victim's browser environment and system resources. Successful exploitation allows for modification of browser configuration settings, persistent code injection, and potential privilege escalation within the browser's security model. The attack surface includes the ability to manipulate browser extensions, modify user preferences, and potentially access sensitive data stored within the browser's trusted zone. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for scripting languages and T1068 for exploit development, as it enables attackers to leverage browser APIs for unauthorized system access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-10032 primarily focus on immediate browser updates to version 3.3 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the cross-context scripting vulnerability. Organizations should implement network-level protections including web application firewalls and content filtering systems that can detect and block malicious script injection attempts. Browser security configurations should be hardened by disabling unnecessary APIs and restricting access to privileged functions through proper sandboxing mechanisms. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding untrusted websites and suspicious links that may contain malicious payloads designed to exploit this vulnerability. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should verify that the patched browser versions maintain proper isolation between trusted and untrusted content contexts.