CVE-2024-29998 is a vulnerability identified in the Windows Mobile Broadband Driver component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The root cause of this vulnerability is improper input validation (CWE-20), which allows an attacker to craft malicious input that the driver fails to properly sanitize or verify. This flaw can be exploited remotely without requiring any authentication or user interaction, as indicated by the CVSS vector (AV:P/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N). Successful exploitation could lead to remote code execution (RCE), granting an attacker the ability to execute arbitrary code with high privileges on the affected system. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as an attacker could potentially take full control of the system, access sensitive data, modify system files, or cause system instability or denial of service. The CVSS base score is 6.8, categorized as medium severity, reflecting the partial network attack vector (physical proximity required) and the ease of exploitation (low complexity). No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability was reserved in March 2024 and published in May 2024, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. The affected component, the Mobile Broadband Driver, is typically used to manage cellular network connectivity on Windows 10 devices, especially laptops and tablets with embedded cellular modems or external mobile broadband adapters. This limits the scope to devices with such hardware, rather than all Windows 10 installations. The vulnerability's exploitation requires proximity to the target device, as the attack vector is physical (AV:P), meaning the attacker must be within wireless range or have direct access to the mobile broadband interface. This reduces the attack surface compared to purely remote vulnerabilities but still poses a significant risk in environments where such devices are used in public or semi-public spaces.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-29998 can be significant, particularly for sectors relying on mobile broadband connectivity for remote or mobile workforce operations, such as telecommunications, transportation, logistics, and critical infrastructure. Compromise of devices running Windows 10 Version 1809 with affected mobile broadband drivers could lead to unauthorized access to corporate networks, data exfiltration, or disruption of services. Given the vulnerability allows remote code execution without user interaction or authentication, attackers could deploy malware, ransomware, or establish persistent footholds. The physical proximity requirement somewhat limits large-scale remote exploitation but increases risk in environments with high device mobility or public access, such as airports, train stations, or corporate campuses. Additionally, many European organizations may still operate legacy systems on Windows 10 Version 1809 due to extended support agreements or delayed upgrade cycles, increasing exposure. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data and critical systems could be compromised, potentially leading to financial loss, reputational damage, and regulatory non-compliance under GDPR and other data protection laws.

Prioritize upgrading affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a more recent, supported Windows version where the vulnerability is patched or not present. If immediate upgrade is not feasible, implement network segmentation to isolate devices with mobile broadband capabilities from critical network resources. Restrict physical access and wireless proximity to devices with mobile broadband drivers, especially in public or unsecured environments, to reduce exploitation risk. Monitor network traffic for unusual activity originating from mobile broadband interfaces, including unexpected connections or data transfers. Apply any available vendor or Microsoft updates as soon as they are released; monitor official Microsoft security advisories for patches addressing this vulnerability. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts on mobile broadband drivers. Educate IT and security teams about the specific risks associated with mobile broadband drivers and enforce strict device usage policies for mobile and remote workers.