CVE-2024-37971 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability classified under CWE-121, impacting Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability specifically targets the Secure Boot security feature, which is designed to ensure that only trusted software is loaded during the system startup process. By exploiting this buffer overflow, an attacker can bypass Secure Boot protections, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution with high privileges. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.0 reflects a high-severity issue with an attack vector over the network (AV:A), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but requiring user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability's nature suggests that an attacker could remotely trigger the overflow via network access, possibly through crafted packets or malicious payloads that cause the stack overflow during Secure Boot verification processes. The lack of patches at the time of publication increases the urgency for defensive measures. This vulnerability affects legacy Windows 10 systems that remain in use in many enterprise environments, particularly those that have not upgraded to newer Windows versions or applied interim security controls.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-37971 is significant due to the widespread use of Windows 10 Version 1809 in enterprise and industrial environments. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to bypass Secure Boot protections, execute arbitrary code, and potentially gain persistent control over affected systems. This threatens the confidentiality of sensitive data, the integrity of critical system processes, and the availability of essential services. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and government are particularly at risk, as they often rely on legacy Windows systems and require strong boot security to maintain operational trustworthiness. The network attack vector means that organizations with exposed or poorly segmented networks are more vulnerable. The requirement for user interaction may limit mass exploitation but does not eliminate targeted attacks, especially spear-phishing or social engineering campaigns. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense but also indicates that attackers may be developing exploits, increasing future risk.

European organizations should take immediate steps to mitigate this vulnerability beyond generic advice. First, identify and inventory all systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0) to assess exposure. Restrict network access to these systems by implementing strict firewall rules and network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors. Enforce policies to reduce user interaction risks, such as disabling unnecessary services, restricting execution of untrusted code, and enhancing user awareness training to prevent social engineering. Monitor network traffic for anomalous activity that could indicate exploitation attempts targeting Secure Boot processes. Since no official patches are currently available, consider upgrading affected systems to a supported Windows version with active security updates. Apply any available vendor workarounds or mitigations from Microsoft security advisories as soon as they are released. Additionally, implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting buffer overflow exploitation techniques and Secure Boot bypass attempts. Regularly review and update incident response plans to address potential exploitation scenarios involving this vulnerability.