CVE-2024-30080 is a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809, specifically in the Microsoft Message Queuing (MSMQ) component. The vulnerability is classified as a Use After Free (CWE-416) flaw, which occurs when the system attempts to use memory after it has been freed, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. MSMQ is a messaging protocol that allows applications running on separate servers/processes to communicate asynchronously. Due to the nature of this vulnerability, an unauthenticated attacker can remotely exploit the flaw without any user interaction, by sending specially crafted messages to the MSMQ service. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 9.8, indicating a critical severity level, with attack vector being network (AV:N), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction needed (UI:N). The impact includes full compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, as successful exploitation allows remote code execution with system-level privileges. The vulnerability affects Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0), which is an older version of Windows 10, but still in use in some environments. Although no public exploits have been observed in the wild yet, the critical nature and ease of exploitation make it a high-risk vulnerability that requires immediate attention. No official patch links are provided in the data, suggesting that organizations must monitor Microsoft advisories closely for updates or mitigations. The vulnerability was reserved in March 2024 and published in June 2024, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those still running legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system takeover, data breaches, disruption of business operations, and lateral movement within networks. Critical infrastructure, government agencies, financial institutions, and enterprises relying on MSMQ for messaging services are particularly at risk. The ability to exploit remotely without authentication or user interaction increases the attack surface dramatically, making it feasible for threat actors to launch widespread attacks or targeted intrusions. Given the high severity and potential for remote code execution, organizations could face regulatory consequences under GDPR if personal data is compromised. Additionally, the disruption caused by ransomware or other malware deployed via this vulnerability could have cascading effects on supply chains and service availability across Europe.

European organizations should prioritize the following mitigation steps: 1) Identify and inventory all systems running Windows 10 Version 1809, especially those with MSMQ enabled. 2) Apply any available security updates or patches from Microsoft immediately once released. In the absence of patches, consider temporary workarounds such as disabling MSMQ service if it is not critical to business operations. 3) Implement network-level controls to restrict inbound traffic to MSMQ ports (default TCP 1801) from untrusted networks, using firewalls and network segmentation to limit exposure. 4) Employ intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with updated signatures to detect anomalous MSMQ traffic patterns. 5) Monitor logs and network traffic for suspicious activity related to MSMQ communications. 6) Plan and execute migration strategies to newer, supported Windows versions to reduce exposure to legacy vulnerabilities. 7) Conduct user awareness and incident response readiness exercises focused on remote code execution threats. 8) Engage with Microsoft support and security advisories to stay informed of any emerging exploit activity or additional mitigations.