CVE-2024-30097 is a vulnerability identified in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0) specifically within the Microsoft Speech Application Programming Interface (SAPI). The root cause is a double free condition (CWE-415), where the same memory is freed twice, leading to memory corruption. This flaw can be triggered remotely over the network without requiring privileges (AV:N/PR:N), but it does require user interaction (UI:R), such as opening a specially crafted file or receiving malicious input that invokes SAPI. Exploitation can result in remote code execution, allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the logged-in user. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, potentially enabling full system compromise. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8 (high severity), reflecting the ease of exploitation and the critical impact. No public exploit code or active exploitation has been reported yet, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be treated as a serious risk. The lack of published patches at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate risk mitigation and monitoring for updates from Microsoft. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for organizations still running legacy Windows 10 1809 systems, which may be common in certain industrial or governmental environments.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-30097 could be severe. Many enterprises and public sector entities still operate Windows 10 Version 1809 due to legacy application dependencies or delayed upgrade cycles. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain control over affected systems, steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or deploy ransomware. Critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, transportation, healthcare, and government agencies that rely on legacy Windows 10 systems are at heightened risk. The vulnerability's remote exploitation vector and lack of required privileges make it attractive for attackers targeting European organizations. Additionally, the requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering could be used to trigger the exploit. The potential for widespread impact is significant given the high market penetration of Windows 10 in Europe and the strategic importance of affected sectors.

1. Immediately inventory and identify all systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 within the organization. 2. Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely for the release of official patches or updates addressing CVE-2024-30097 and apply them promptly once available. 3. Until patches are available, consider disabling or restricting the use of Microsoft Speech API (SAPI) where feasible, especially on systems exposed to untrusted networks or users. 4. Implement strict email and web filtering to reduce the risk of malicious content that could trigger user interaction exploitation. 5. Enhance endpoint detection and response (EDR) capabilities to monitor for suspicious behaviors indicative of memory corruption or exploitation attempts. 6. Educate users about the risks of interacting with unsolicited or suspicious files and links to mitigate social engineering vectors. 7. Where possible, accelerate migration to supported Windows versions with active security support to reduce exposure to legacy vulnerabilities. 8. Employ network segmentation to limit the spread of potential compromises originating from vulnerable systems. 9. Use application whitelisting to prevent execution of unauthorized code that could result from exploitation.