CVE-2024-37972 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability classified under CWE-121, impacting Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This 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 elevated privileges. The CVSS 3.1 vector (AV:A/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H) indicates that the attack can be performed remotely over a network with low complexity, requires no privileges, but does require user interaction, such as convincing a user to open a malicious file or link. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, meaning an attacker could fully compromise the affected system. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability’s presence in a widely deployed Windows version used in many enterprise environments makes it a significant risk. The lack of available patches at the time of publication necessitates immediate attention to mitigation strategies. This vulnerability is particularly critical because Secure Boot is a foundational security mechanism, and its bypass undermines the trust model of the system’s boot process, potentially allowing persistent and stealthy malware to be installed.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-37972 is substantial. Many enterprises and government agencies still operate legacy Windows 10 systems, including version 1809, especially in industrial control systems, healthcare, and critical infrastructure sectors. A successful exploit could lead to full system compromise, data breaches, disruption of services, and the installation of persistent malware that evades detection by traditional security controls. The Secure Boot bypass undermines hardware-rooted trust, increasing the risk of firmware-level attacks that are difficult to remediate. This could affect confidentiality of sensitive personal and corporate data, integrity of critical systems, and availability of essential services. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted phishing or social engineering campaigns could enable attackers to compromise high-value targets. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but also means organizations must proactively address the vulnerability before attackers develop weaponized exploits.

Given the absence of official patches at the time of this report, European organizations should take immediate steps to mitigate risk. First, identify and inventory all systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0) and prioritize them for upgrade to a supported Windows version with active security updates. Implement network segmentation and restrict network access to vulnerable systems to reduce exposure to remote attacks. Employ strict user awareness training to reduce the likelihood of successful user interaction-based exploitation, focusing on phishing and social engineering defenses. Enable and enforce multi-factor authentication to limit the impact of compromised credentials. Monitor security logs and endpoint detection systems for unusual activity related to Secure Boot or boot process anomalies. Once Microsoft releases patches, apply them immediately. Consider deploying application whitelisting and hardware-based security features such as TPM and measured boot to strengthen defenses. Regularly back up critical data and test recovery procedures to mitigate potential ransomware or destructive attacks leveraging this vulnerability.