CVE-2023-28252 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability classified under CWE-122, found in the Windows Common Log File System Driver component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability allows an attacker with local access and limited privileges to perform an elevation of privilege attack by exploiting improper handling of memory buffers in the driver. The flaw arises when the driver incorrectly manages heap memory, leading to buffer overflow conditions that can overwrite critical data structures or code pointers. This can result in arbitrary code execution with elevated privileges, compromising system confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.8, reflecting high severity due to its impact and exploitability. The attack vector is local, requiring low complexity and no user interaction, but some privileges are needed to initiate the exploit. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the public disclosure increases the risk of future exploitation. The affected product is specifically Windows 10 Version 1809, an older release that is no longer mainstream supported, which means many systems may remain unpatched. The vulnerability is critical for environments where legacy systems are still operational, especially in enterprise or government contexts where privilege escalation can lead to lateral movement and full domain compromise.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, particularly for those still operating Windows 10 Version 1809 in production environments. Successful exploitation allows attackers to escalate privileges from a limited user account to SYSTEM-level access, enabling full control over affected machines. This can lead to data breaches, disruption of services, and compromise of sensitive information. Critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and industrial control systems are particularly vulnerable due to the potential for lateral movement and persistence within networks. The vulnerability's local attack vector means that initial access is required, but once inside, attackers can leverage this flaw to deepen their foothold. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk, but the public availability of details and the high severity score necessitate urgent mitigation. European organizations with legacy Windows 10 deployments, especially those in countries with high adoption of Microsoft products and significant critical infrastructure, face elevated exposure.

The primary mitigation is to apply the official security updates provided by Microsoft for Windows 10 Version 1809 as soon as they become available. If patches are not yet released or cannot be applied immediately, organizations should consider upgrading affected systems to a supported Windows version with ongoing security updates. Additional mitigations include restricting local user privileges to the minimum necessary, employing application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized code execution, and monitoring system logs for unusual activity related to the Common Log File System Driver. Network segmentation and limiting local access to critical systems can reduce the attack surface. Employing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous privilege escalation attempts can also help in early detection. Regular vulnerability scanning and asset inventory to identify systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 will aid in prioritizing remediation efforts.