CVE-2024-26160 is a medium severity vulnerability identified in Microsoft Windows 11 version 22H2 (build 10.0.22621.0). It is classified as a CWE-126: Buffer Over-read vulnerability affecting the Windows Cloud Files Mini Filter Driver. This component is responsible for managing cloud file synchronization and access, such as with OneDrive or other cloud storage integrations within Windows. The vulnerability arises when the mini filter driver improperly handles memory buffers, leading to an over-read condition where more data is read from memory than intended. This can result in information disclosure, as sensitive data residing in adjacent memory locations may be exposed to an attacker. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.5, indicating a medium severity level. The vector details specify that the attack requires local access (AV:L), low complexity (AC:L), and privileges (PR:L), but no user interaction (UI:N). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact is high on confidentiality (C:H), with no impact on integrity or availability. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability was reserved in February 2024 and published in March 2024. Given the nature of the vulnerability, an attacker with local low-privilege access could exploit this flaw to read sensitive information from kernel or system memory, potentially leading to further attacks or data leakage. This vulnerability does not allow code execution or system disruption directly but compromises confidentiality.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2024-26160 lies in the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information stored or processed on Windows 11 22H2 systems. Organizations relying heavily on Windows 11 endpoints, especially those integrating cloud file services like OneDrive, could face risks of data leakage if an attacker gains local access. This could include exposure of confidential business data, credentials, or other sensitive information residing in memory buffers. The requirement for local privileges reduces the risk from remote attackers but elevates concerns about insider threats, compromised endpoints, or malware that has already gained limited access. In sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government within Europe, where data protection regulations like GDPR impose strict confidentiality requirements, such information disclosure vulnerabilities can lead to compliance violations, reputational damage, and potential financial penalties. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as a stepping stone in multi-stage attacks to escalate privileges or move laterally within networks. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk, but the medium severity and high confidentiality impact warrant timely attention.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigation measures: 1) Monitor for and apply Microsoft security updates promptly once patches for CVE-2024-26160 are released, as no official patch is currently linked. 2) Restrict local access to Windows 11 22H2 systems by enforcing strict endpoint security controls, including limiting administrative privileges and using application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized code execution. 3) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect suspicious local activities that could indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability. 4) Harden cloud file synchronization configurations by reviewing and restricting access permissions to minimize exposure. 5) Conduct regular audits of user privileges and remove unnecessary local access rights, especially for users who do not require direct interaction with cloud file services. 6) Educate users and administrators about the risks of local privilege exploitation and enforce strong authentication mechanisms to reduce the likelihood of initial compromise. 7) Implement network segmentation to isolate critical systems and reduce the impact of potential lateral movement following exploitation. These targeted actions go beyond generic patching advice and focus on reducing the attack surface and detecting exploitation attempts.