CVE-2024-29997 is a security vulnerability identified in the Windows Mobile Broadband Driver component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability is classified under CWE-190, which pertains to integer overflow or wraparound issues. Specifically, this flaw arises when the driver improperly handles integer values, allowing an attacker to trigger an overflow condition. This can lead to memory corruption, which in turn enables remote code execution (RCE) without requiring any user interaction or prior authentication. The vulnerability is exploitable remotely with low attack complexity, as indicated by the CVSS vector (AV:P/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N), meaning an attacker can exploit it over a network with physical proximity (e.g., via mobile broadband interfaces) without needing credentials or user action. Successful exploitation compromises confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as the attacker can execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges, potentially taking full control of the affected system. Despite the severity, no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date (May 14, 2024). No official patches or mitigations have been linked yet, which increases the urgency for affected organizations to monitor updates closely and apply them promptly once available. The vulnerability affects a legacy Windows 10 version (1809), which is still in use in some environments but is no longer the latest supported version, potentially limiting exposure but also complicating patch management for organizations that have not upgraded.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-29997 can be significant, especially for those relying on Windows 10 Version 1809 in operational environments with mobile broadband connectivity. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with high privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise. This can result in data breaches, disruption of critical services, and lateral movement within corporate networks. Sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, and public services that utilize mobile broadband-enabled devices or embedded Windows 10 1809 systems are particularly at risk. The compromise of such systems could affect confidentiality of sensitive data, integrity of operational processes, and availability of essential services. Given the lack of known exploits currently, the threat is more proactive than reactive, but the medium CVSS score (6.8) and the critical nature of RCE vulnerabilities warrant immediate attention. Additionally, organizations with legacy systems or those slow to upgrade may face increased exposure. The absence of user interaction and authentication requirements lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing risk in environments where mobile broadband drivers are active and accessible.

1. Immediate inventory and identification of all systems running Windows 10 Version 1809, particularly those with mobile broadband capabilities enabled. 2. Prioritize upgrading affected systems to a more recent, supported Windows 10 or Windows 11 version where this vulnerability is not present. 3. Until patches are available, restrict or disable mobile broadband interfaces on critical systems if feasible, to reduce the attack surface. 4. Implement network segmentation to isolate vulnerable devices from sensitive parts of the network, limiting potential lateral movement. 5. Monitor network traffic for unusual activity related to mobile broadband interfaces, including unexpected remote connections or anomalous data flows. 6. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting exploitation attempts or abnormal process behavior linked to memory corruption or code execution. 7. Stay informed via official Microsoft security advisories and apply patches immediately upon release. 8. For environments where upgrading is not immediately possible, consider applying temporary mitigations such as firewall rules blocking unnecessary inbound traffic to mobile broadband interfaces. 9. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing focusing on mobile broadband components to identify potential exploitation vectors.