CVE-2024-37987 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-843 (Access of Resource Using Incompatible Type, commonly known as type confusion) affecting Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The flaw specifically targets the Secure Boot feature, a critical security mechanism designed to ensure that only trusted software is loaded during the system startup process. The vulnerability allows an attacker to bypass Secure Boot protections by exploiting a type confusion error, which occurs when the system accesses a resource using an incorrect or incompatible data type, leading to unexpected behavior or security bypass. According to the CVSS 3.1 vector, the attack can be performed remotely (Attack Vector: Adjacent Network), requires no privileges (PR:N), but does require user interaction (UI:R). The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a high level, indicating that an attacker could execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or disrupt system operations. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability's nature and impact make it a significant threat. The absence of patch links suggests that a fix may not yet be publicly available, emphasizing the need for proactive mitigation. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because Secure Boot is a foundational security control used to prevent rootkits and bootkits, and its bypass could facilitate persistent and stealthy attacks on affected systems.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-37987 is substantial. Secure Boot is widely deployed in enterprise environments to protect against firmware-level attacks and ensure system integrity from the earliest boot stages. A successful bypass could allow attackers to load malicious bootloaders or kernel-level malware, leading to persistent compromise that is difficult to detect and remediate. This could result in data breaches, disruption of critical services, and loss of trust in IT infrastructure. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on secure and trusted computing environments. Additionally, organizations still running Windows 10 Version 1809, which is an older release, may face increased risk as this version may no longer receive mainstream support or security updates, making exploitation easier. The potential for remote exploitation with minimal privileges and user interaction further elevates the threat, especially in environments with remote access or where social engineering could be leveraged. Overall, the vulnerability could undermine the security posture of European enterprises and public sector entities, increasing the risk of advanced persistent threats and supply chain attacks.

1. Upgrade or patch: Organizations should prioritize upgrading from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported and patched version of Windows 10 or Windows 11 where this vulnerability is resolved. If a patch becomes available, apply it immediately. 2. Enforce Secure Boot policies: Ensure Secure Boot is enabled and configured to allow only trusted bootloaders and signed binaries. Disable legacy BIOS boot modes that bypass Secure Boot. 3. Restrict user interaction vectors: Limit or monitor user actions that could trigger exploitation, such as opening untrusted files or links that might initiate the attack. 4. Network segmentation: Isolate systems running vulnerable versions to reduce exposure to adjacent network attacks. 5. Monitor boot integrity: Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting anomalous bootloader or kernel module behavior indicative of Secure Boot bypass attempts. 6. Harden remote access: Implement multi-factor authentication and strict access controls to reduce the risk of remote exploitation. 7. Incident response readiness: Prepare for potential compromise by ensuring backups, forensic capabilities, and incident response plans are in place. 8. Vendor engagement: Stay informed through Microsoft advisories and CISA alerts for updates and patches related to this vulnerability.