CVE-2024-30068 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). It is classified as an out-of-bounds read vulnerability (CWE-125) within the Windows kernel, which can lead to an elevation of privilege. Specifically, this vulnerability allows a local attacker with limited privileges (low privileges) to exploit a flaw in the kernel memory handling, reading memory outside the intended boundaries. This can result in the disclosure of sensitive information or corruption of kernel memory structures, potentially enabling the attacker to escalate their privileges to SYSTEM level. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.8, indicating a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring the attacker to have some level of access to the system but no user interaction (UI:N) is needed. The attack complexity is low (AC:L), and only low privileges (PR:L) are required to exploit it. The scope is changed (S:C), meaning the vulnerability affects resources beyond the initially vulnerable component. Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild, and no official patches have been linked or released at the time of publication (June 11, 2024). This vulnerability is critical because it targets the Windows kernel, a core component responsible for system security and stability. Exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security controls, install persistent malware, or disrupt system operations.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially those relying on Windows 10 Version 1809 in their IT infrastructure. The ability to elevate privileges locally can lead to full system compromise, data breaches, and disruption of critical services. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are particularly at risk due to the sensitive nature of their data and the potential impact on public safety and economic stability. Since the vulnerability requires local access, insider threats or attackers who have gained initial footholds through phishing or other means could leverage this flaw to escalate privileges and move laterally within networks. The lack of a patch increases the window of exposure, making timely detection and mitigation crucial. Additionally, the changed scope of the vulnerability means that the impact could extend beyond the initially compromised component, potentially affecting multiple system components and services.

1. Immediate mitigation should focus on minimizing local access to systems running Windows 10 Version 1809. This includes enforcing strict access controls, limiting administrative privileges, and monitoring for unusual local activity. 2. Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of identifying suspicious kernel-level activities or privilege escalation attempts. 3. Implement network segmentation to contain potential lateral movement if an attacker gains local access. 4. Regularly audit and harden user accounts, removing unnecessary privileges and disabling unused accounts. 5. Since no official patch is currently available, consider upgrading affected systems to a more recent, supported Windows version that includes security improvements and patches. 6. Apply strict application whitelisting and use security features such as Windows Defender Credential Guard and Exploit Protection to reduce the attack surface. 7. Maintain comprehensive logging and monitoring to detect exploitation attempts early. 8. Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing kernel-level compromises to ensure rapid containment and recovery.