CVE-2024-38019 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in the Microsoft Windows Performance Data Helper Library specifically affecting Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The underlying issue is an integer overflow or wraparound (CWE-190) within this library, which can be exploited to achieve remote code execution (RCE). An integer overflow occurs when an arithmetic operation attempts to create a numeric value that is outside the range that can be represented with a given number of bits, causing unexpected behavior such as memory corruption. In this case, the vulnerability allows an attacker to remotely execute arbitrary code on the affected system without requiring user interaction, provided they have high-level privileges (PR:H). The CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.2 indicates a high severity, with attack vector being network (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), and no user interaction (UI:N). The scope remains unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits are currently observed in the wild, the vulnerability’s characteristics make it a significant risk, especially in environments where Windows 10 Version 1809 is still in use. The lack of available patches at the time of publication further increases the urgency for mitigation. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2024 and published in July 2024, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. The Windows Performance Data Helper Library is a core component used for performance monitoring and diagnostics, so exploitation could allow attackers to gain control over affected systems, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, or disruption of critical services.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk, particularly for those still operating legacy systems such as Windows 10 Version 1809, which may be prevalent in industrial, governmental, or enterprise environments. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, enabling attackers to steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or establish persistent footholds. Given the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, critical infrastructure sectors such as finance, healthcare, energy, and public administration could face severe consequences. The remote code execution capability without user interaction means that attackers can automate attacks and potentially propagate malware or ransomware quickly across networks. Additionally, organizations with strict regulatory requirements under GDPR must consider the risk of data breaches and the associated legal and financial penalties. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity score and ease of network exploitation mean that European entities should prioritize mitigation to prevent future exploitation attempts.

1. Immediate upgrade or patching: Although no patches are listed in the provided information, organizations should monitor Microsoft’s official security advisories and apply any released updates promptly. 2. Network segmentation: Limit exposure of systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 by segmenting networks and restricting access to trusted users and devices only. 3. Privilege management: Since exploitation requires high privileges, enforce the principle of least privilege and restrict administrative access to essential personnel and processes. 4. Intrusion detection and prevention: Deploy network-based and host-based intrusion detection systems configured to detect anomalous behavior related to Windows Performance Data Helper Library activities. 5. Disable or restrict the use of the Performance Data Helper Library where feasible, especially on systems that do not require performance monitoring features. 6. Continuous monitoring: Implement robust logging and monitoring to detect unusual remote code execution attempts or exploitation indicators. 7. Incident response readiness: Prepare and test incident response plans to quickly isolate and remediate affected systems if exploitation is detected. 8. Upgrade legacy systems: Plan and execute migration away from Windows 10 Version 1809 to supported and patched versions of Windows to reduce exposure to this and other vulnerabilities.