CVE-2024-30079 is a buffer over-read vulnerability classified under CWE-126 found in the Windows Remote Access Connection Manager on Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability arises from improper validation of memory buffers, allowing an attacker with low-level privileges (PR:L) to read beyond the intended buffer boundaries. This can lead to elevation of privilege (EoP) without requiring user interaction (UI:N), enabling the attacker to gain higher system privileges than originally granted. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H), meaning an attacker could potentially access sensitive information, modify system configurations, or disrupt services. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring the attacker to have some access to the system but with low complexity (AC:L). The scope is unchanged (S:U), indicating the impact is limited to the vulnerable component and does not extend beyond the affected system. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability is rated high severity with a CVSS score of 7.8, reflecting the significant risk posed if exploited. The Remote Access Connection Manager is critical for managing VPN and dial-up connections, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for environments relying on remote connectivity. The vulnerability was reserved in March 2024 and published in July 2024, with no patches currently linked, indicating organizations must monitor for updates and apply them promptly once available.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-30079 is significant, especially for those still operating Windows 10 Version 1809 in production environments. The vulnerability allows attackers with limited privileges to escalate their access, potentially leading to full system compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of remote access services, and potential lateral movement within networks. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that rely heavily on secure remote access are particularly at risk. The confidentiality breach could expose personal and corporate data, while integrity and availability impacts could disrupt business operations and critical services. Given the local attack vector, insider threats or attackers who have gained initial footholds could leverage this vulnerability to deepen their access. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity score necessitates urgent mitigation to prevent future exploitation.

1. Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely and apply official patches immediately once released for Windows 10 Version 1809 systems. 2. If patching is not immediately possible, restrict access to systems running the vulnerable version by implementing strict network segmentation and access controls, limiting local user privileges. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect and prevent suspicious activities related to privilege escalation attempts. 4. Conduct regular audits of user privileges and remove unnecessary local accounts or restrict their capabilities to minimize potential attack vectors. 5. Educate IT staff and users about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and enforce policies to prevent unauthorized software installations or execution. 6. Consider upgrading affected systems to supported Windows versions with ongoing security updates to reduce exposure to legacy vulnerabilities. 7. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for remote access services to add an additional layer of security against compromised credentials.