CVE-2024-10397 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability classified under CWE-787 affecting the OpenAFS distributed file system client software maintained by The OpenAFS Foundation. The vulnerability exists in versions 1.0, 1.8.0, and 1.9.0 of OpenAFS. It allows a malicious OpenAFS server to send crafted responses that cause the OpenAFS cache manager and other client utilities to perform out-of-bounds memory writes. This can lead to a crash (denial of service) or potentially arbitrary code execution on the client machine. The vulnerability is exploitable remotely over the network without requiring prior authentication but does require user interaction, such as the client connecting to or interacting with a malicious or compromised server. The CVSS v4.0 vector indicates a network attack vector (AV:N), high attack complexity (AC:H), partial user interaction (UI:P), no privileges required (PR:N), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H, I:H, A:H). No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability is published and should be considered a significant risk. The flaw arises from improper bounds checking in the client code when processing server responses, allowing memory corruption. This can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code or crash client applications, disrupting operations and potentially enabling further compromise.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-10397 is substantial, particularly for those relying on OpenAFS for distributed file storage and collaboration, such as academic institutions, research centers, and enterprises with legacy systems. Exploitation can lead to denial of service by crashing critical client utilities, disrupting access to shared resources and workflows. More critically, arbitrary code execution could allow attackers to gain control over client machines, leading to data theft, lateral movement within networks, or deployment of ransomware. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data stored or accessed via OpenAFS are at risk. Given the network-based attack vector, organizations with insufficient network segmentation or exposure to untrusted OpenAFS servers face higher risk. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering could facilitate exploitation. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits rapidly after disclosure.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Immediately audit and inventory OpenAFS client deployments to identify affected versions (1.0, 1.8.0, 1.9.0). 2) Apply vendor patches or updates as soon as they become available; if no patches exist yet, consider disabling or restricting OpenAFS client usage temporarily. 3) Restrict network access to trusted OpenAFS servers only, using firewall rules and network segmentation to prevent clients from connecting to untrusted or external servers. 4) Educate users about the risks of connecting to unknown OpenAFS servers and the importance of avoiding unsolicited file shares or network connections. 5) Monitor client systems for unusual crashes or behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 6) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect memory corruption or anomalous process activity related to OpenAFS utilities. 7) Consider deploying application whitelisting or sandboxing for OpenAFS client utilities to limit potential damage from exploitation. 8) Review and enhance incident response plans to include scenarios involving OpenAFS client compromise.