CVE-2024-30082 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 affecting the Win32k subsystem in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The flaw arises when the system improperly manages memory, allowing an attacker with limited privileges to manipulate freed memory regions, leading to elevation of privilege. This vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require local access and some privileges (PR:L). The CVSS 3.1 score is 7.8, indicating high severity, with impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated high). The attack vector is local (AV:L), and the vulnerability scope is unchanged (S:U). No known exploits have been observed in the wild, and no official patches have been published at the time of analysis. The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in kernel mode, bypassing security controls and gaining SYSTEM-level privileges. This could lead to full system compromise, data theft, or disruption of services. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments where Windows 10 Version 1809 remains in use, such as legacy systems in enterprise or industrial settings. The lack of a patch increases the urgency for mitigation through alternative controls.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially those maintaining legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems in critical infrastructure, government, healthcare, and industrial sectors. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, potentially resulting in data breaches, system downtime, or disruption of critical services. Confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems could be severely compromised. The local attack vector means that insider threats or attackers who gain initial foothold through other means could leverage this vulnerability to deepen their access. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits once the vulnerability becomes widely known. European organizations with strict regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR) must consider the potential compliance implications of breaches stemming from this vulnerability.

1. Prioritize upgrading or migrating systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported, fully patched Windows version to eliminate exposure. 2. Implement strict access controls and limit local user privileges to reduce the likelihood of exploitation. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious local privilege escalation attempts. 4. Harden systems by disabling unnecessary services and restricting access to the Win32k subsystem where feasible. 5. Monitor system logs and security alerts for anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing local privilege escalation scenarios. 7. Stay informed on Microsoft’s security advisories for the release of patches or workarounds and apply them promptly once available. 8. For environments where immediate upgrade is not possible, consider network segmentation and isolation of vulnerable systems to limit attacker movement.