CVE-2024-30032 is a high-severity elevation of privilege vulnerability identified in the Desktop Window Manager (DWM) Core Library component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The underlying technical issue is a Use After Free (CWE-416) flaw, which occurs when the software continues to use memory after it has been freed, potentially leading to memory corruption. This vulnerability allows an attacker with limited privileges (local low-level privileges) to execute code in an elevated context, thereby gaining higher system privileges without requiring user interaction. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with an attack vector limited to local access but requiring low complexity and no user interaction. The vulnerability affects a specific legacy Windows 10 version (1809), which is still in use in some environments, particularly in enterprise settings where long-term support versions are maintained. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability’s characteristics make it a significant risk if exploited, as it could allow attackers to bypass security boundaries and execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The lack of publicly available patches at the time of publication increases the urgency for mitigation and monitoring.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-30032 can be substantial, especially in sectors relying on legacy Windows 10 1809 deployments, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and government agencies where system upgrades are slower due to operational constraints. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation, enabling attackers to install persistent malware, exfiltrate sensitive data, or disrupt critical services. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems could be severely compromised, potentially affecting business continuity and regulatory compliance (e.g., GDPR). Since the vulnerability requires local access but no user interaction, insider threats or attackers who gain initial foothold through other means (e.g., phishing, network intrusion) could leverage this flaw to escalate privileges and move laterally within networks. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity score indicates that once exploit code becomes available, rapid exploitation could occur.

Given the absence of an official patch at the time of analysis, European organizations should implement targeted mitigations beyond generic advice. First, identify and inventory all systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 to assess exposure. Limit local access privileges strictly, enforcing the principle of least privilege to reduce the pool of users who can exploit this vulnerability. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious activity related to DWM processes or unusual privilege escalations. Network segmentation should be enhanced to contain potential lateral movement from compromised endpoints. Additionally, consider deploying host-based intrusion prevention systems (HIPS) with rules tailored to detect use-after-free exploitation patterns. Organizations should also plan and prioritize upgrading affected systems to supported Windows versions with active security updates. Until patches are released, heightened monitoring of security logs and anomaly detection for privilege escalation attempts is critical. Finally, educate IT staff about this vulnerability to ensure rapid response once patches become available.