CVE-2024-30086 is a high-severity use-after-free vulnerability (CWE-416) found in the Windows Win32 Kernel Subsystem specifically affecting Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability allows an attacker with limited privileges (low-level privileges) on a vulnerable system to elevate their privileges to a higher level, potentially SYSTEM or administrative privileges, by exploiting improper memory management in the kernel subsystem. Use-after-free vulnerabilities occur when a program continues to use a pointer after the memory it points to has been freed, leading to undefined behavior such as memory corruption, which attackers can leverage to execute arbitrary code or escalate privileges. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.8 indicates a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with the attack vector being local (AV:L), requiring low attack complexity (AC:L), and low privileges (PR:L), but no user interaction (UI:N). The scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the vulnerability affects the same security scope. There are no known exploits in the wild as of the publication date (June 11, 2024), and no patches or mitigations have been linked yet. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited by a local attacker to gain elevated privileges, potentially allowing full control over the affected system, installation of persistent malware, or bypassing security controls. Given that Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release, many organizations may still be running this version due to legacy application dependencies or delayed upgrade cycles, increasing the risk exposure.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-30086 can be significant, especially in sectors relying on legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems such as manufacturing, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. Successful exploitation can lead to privilege escalation, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, compromise sensitive data, disrupt operations, or deploy ransomware and other malware. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems and data can be severely affected. Organizations with strict regulatory requirements under GDPR and other data protection laws may face compliance risks and potential fines if breaches occur due to exploitation of this vulnerability. Additionally, the local attack vector means that insider threats or attackers who gain initial access through other means (such as phishing or network intrusion) can leverage this vulnerability to deepen their foothold and move laterally within networks. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the high severity score and nature of the vulnerability warrant urgent attention.

1. Immediate upgrade or patching: Organizations should prioritize upgrading affected systems to a supported and patched version of Windows 10 or later versions where this vulnerability is fixed. If patches become available, they must be applied promptly. 2. Minimize use of Windows 10 Version 1809: Identify and isolate systems still running this version and plan for their upgrade or replacement. 3. Restrict local access: Limit local user accounts and enforce strict access controls to reduce the risk of local exploitation. 4. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions: Use advanced monitoring to detect suspicious activities indicative of privilege escalation attempts. 5. Harden systems: Disable unnecessary services and features that could be leveraged to gain local access. 6. Implement strict application whitelisting and least privilege principles to reduce the attack surface. 7. Conduct regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on privilege escalation vectors. 8. Monitor security advisories from Microsoft and CISA for updates, patches, and exploit reports related to this vulnerability.