CVE-2016-10718 in Brave Browser
Summary
by MITRE
Brave Browser before 0.13.0 allows a tab to close itself even if the tab was not opened by a script, resulting in denial of service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10718 affects the Brave Browser version 0.13.0 and earlier, presenting a critical security flaw that undermines the browser's tab management system. This issue stems from inadequate validation mechanisms within the browser's tab closure functionality, allowing any tab to execute a self-closing operation regardless of its origin or the user's intent. The flaw specifically targets the browser's tab lifecycle management, where legitimate user tabs can be forcibly closed through unauthorized script execution, creating a potential vector for denial of service attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the browser's tab handling code where the security checks for tab closure operations are insufficiently enforced. When a tab attempts to close itself, the browser fails to verify whether the tab was legitimately opened by a script or if it represents a user-initiated navigation. This lack of proper authentication and authorization within the tab management system creates an exploitable condition where malicious scripts can target any tab, including those containing critical user sessions, browsing history, or sensitive information. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under CWE-284, which addresses improper access control, specifically in the context of browser tab management.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as it can be leveraged to disrupt user workflows and potentially expose sensitive data. Attackers can craft malicious web pages that automatically close tabs containing important information, forcing users to re-access resources or lose their browsing context entirely. In environments where users rely on specific tabs for ongoing work or critical applications, this vulnerability can result in significant productivity loss and potential data exposure. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects the browser's core functionality, making it difficult for users to distinguish between legitimate and malicious tab closure attempts.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust tab management controls and access validation mechanisms. Browser vendors should enforce strict authentication checks before allowing any tab closure operation, ensuring that only tabs opened by legitimate scripts or user actions can be closed through automated means. Security patches should include enhanced validation routines that verify the tab's origin and authorization status before processing closure requests. Organizations should also implement network-level protections and browser hardening measures, such as disabling unnecessary scripting capabilities and employing content filtering solutions to prevent the execution of malicious code that could exploit this vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a technique for privilege escalation and denial of service, emphasizing the need for comprehensive browser security controls that address both user interface and application-level vulnerabilities.