CVE-2024-20698 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). It is classified under CWE-190, which pertains to Integer Overflow or Wraparound issues. This vulnerability exists within the Windows kernel and allows for an elevation of privilege attack vector. Specifically, an integer overflow or wraparound condition in kernel code can be exploited by an attacker with limited privileges (low privileges) to escalate their permissions to higher privilege levels, potentially SYSTEM or kernel-level access. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.8 reflects a high severity, with the vector indicating that the attack requires local access (AV:L), low complexity (AC:L), and low privileges (PR:L), but no user interaction (UI:N) is needed. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H), meaning a successful exploit could fully compromise the affected system. The scope remains unchanged (S:U), so the vulnerability affects only the vulnerable component. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches or mitigations have been linked yet. This vulnerability is critical because kernel-level privilege escalation can be leveraged by attackers to bypass security controls, install persistent malware, or move laterally within networks. Given that Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release, organizations still running this version are at risk if they have not applied mitigations or upgraded to newer supported versions.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-20698 can be significant, especially for those still operating legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems in critical infrastructure, government, finance, healthcare, and industrial sectors. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges locally, enabling them to disable security controls, access sensitive data, or deploy ransomware and other malware. This could lead to data breaches, operational disruptions, and compliance violations under GDPR and other regulations. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that the vulnerability could be used to compromise entire systems and networks. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces may face increased risk if endpoint devices running the vulnerable OS are not properly managed or updated. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the presence of a public CVE and high severity score means attackers may develop exploits soon, increasing the urgency for mitigation.

1. Immediate upgrade or patching: Organizations should prioritize upgrading Windows 10 Version 1809 systems to a supported and patched version of Windows 10 or Windows 11 where this vulnerability is fixed. If upgrading is not immediately possible, monitor vendor advisories closely for patches. 2. Restrict local access: Limit local user accounts and restrict physical or remote local access to systems running the vulnerable OS to reduce the risk of exploitation. 3. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint protection: Use advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools that can detect suspicious privilege escalation attempts and block exploitation techniques. 4. Harden kernel security: Enable security features such as Kernel-mode Code Signing (KMCI), Credential Guard, and virtualization-based security where supported to reduce the attack surface. 5. Monitor logs and alerts: Continuously monitor system and security logs for unusual privilege escalation attempts or kernel-level anomalies. 6. Network segmentation: Isolate legacy systems to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 7. User education and least privilege: Enforce least privilege principles and educate users about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities.