CVE-2024-30093 is a vulnerability identified in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809, categorized under CWE-59, which involves improper link resolution before file access, commonly known as 'link following'. This flaw occurs when the Windows Storage component incorrectly handles symbolic links or junction points during file operations, allowing an attacker with limited privileges to redirect file access to unintended locations. By exploiting this, an attacker can elevate their privileges on the system, potentially gaining administrative rights. The vulnerability requires local access with low complexity and some user interaction, such as opening a malicious file or triggering a crafted operation. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.3, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as the attacker could execute arbitrary code or modify critical system files. Although no exploits have been reported in the wild yet, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread deployment of Windows 10 Version 1809 in enterprise environments. The flaw highlights the importance of secure handling of symbolic links in file system operations to prevent unauthorized privilege escalation. Microsoft has not yet published a patch link, but organizations should monitor for updates and prepare to deploy them promptly.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious risk as it allows attackers with limited local access to escalate privileges to administrative levels. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of critical services, and potential full system compromise. Industries such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure, which often rely on Windows 10 Version 1809 in legacy systems, are particularly vulnerable. The ability to compromise system integrity and availability could result in operational downtime, data breaches, and regulatory non-compliance under GDPR. Additionally, the requirement for user interaction and local access somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate insider threat risks or attacks via social engineering. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive defense, but organizations must act swiftly to mitigate potential exploitation as threat actors may develop exploits rapidly once a vulnerability is public.

1. Apply official Microsoft security patches immediately once they become available for Windows 10 Version 1809. 2. Restrict local user permissions to the minimum necessary, especially limiting the ability to create or manipulate symbolic links and junction points. 3. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor and block suspicious file system activities related to link following. 4. Educate users to avoid opening untrusted files or links that could trigger the vulnerability. 5. Use Group Policy to disable or restrict symbolic link creation for non-administrative users where feasible. 6. Conduct regular audits of file system permissions and symbolic link usage to detect anomalies. 7. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to recover quickly from potential compromises. 8. Monitor threat intelligence feeds for emerging exploit techniques targeting this vulnerability.