CVE-2024-30051 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability classified under CWE-122, located in the Windows Desktop Window Manager (DWM) Core Library of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability allows an attacker with limited privileges (local access) to execute a carefully crafted attack that triggers the buffer overflow, leading to an elevation of privilege (EoP). The flaw does not require user interaction and can be exploited with low attack complexity, but it does require the attacker to have some level of local access (PR:L). The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated high), meaning an attacker could gain SYSTEM-level privileges, execute arbitrary code, and potentially take full control over the affected system. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects these factors, with the vector indicating local attack vector, low complexity, no user interaction, and full impact on CIA triad. No public exploit code or active exploitation has been reported yet, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and considered critical for systems still running this older Windows 10 version. Since Windows 10 Version 1809 is out of mainstream support, many organizations may not have patched or upgraded, increasing exposure. The vulnerability's root cause is a heap-based buffer overflow, which typically arises from improper bounds checking or memory management errors in the DWM Core Library, a critical component responsible for rendering and managing graphical windows in Windows. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security boundaries and escalate privileges from a limited user to SYSTEM level, enabling further malicious activities such as installing persistent malware or disabling security controls.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-30051 is significant, especially for those still operating legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems. Privilege escalation vulnerabilities enable attackers who have gained limited local access—via phishing, insider threats, or other means—to elevate their privileges to SYSTEM level, effectively gaining full control over the affected machines. This can lead to data breaches, ransomware deployment, disruption of critical services, and lateral movement within networks. Sectors such as government, finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure are particularly at risk due to the sensitivity of their data and the critical nature of their operations. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk, but the public disclosure increases the likelihood of future exploit development. Additionally, since Windows 10 1809 is no longer in mainstream support, organizations may face challenges in obtaining patches, increasing their vulnerability window. The vulnerability could also impact availability if exploited to cause system crashes or denial of service. Overall, the threat poses a high risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems within European enterprises and public sector entities.

1. Upgrade affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported and fully patched Windows version (e.g., Windows 10 21H2 or later, or Windows 11) to eliminate exposure to this vulnerability. 2. If upgrading is not immediately feasible, monitor Microsoft security advisories closely for any out-of-band patches or mitigations specifically addressing CVE-2024-30051 and apply them promptly. 3. Restrict local access to systems running Windows 10 1809 by enforcing strict access controls, limiting administrative privileges, and using endpoint protection solutions to detect suspicious activity related to DWM processes. 4. Implement application whitelisting and behavior monitoring to detect anomalous privilege escalation attempts. 5. Conduct regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on legacy systems to identify and remediate similar weaknesses. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the importance of maintaining updated systems. 7. Employ network segmentation to limit lateral movement opportunities if a system is compromised. 8. Maintain comprehensive logging and alerting on security events related to privilege escalation attempts to enable rapid incident response.