CVE-2024-38041 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-200 (Exposure of Sensitive Information to an Unauthorized Actor) affecting the Windows Kernel in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The flaw allows a local attacker with low privileges to access sensitive kernel memory or information that should otherwise be protected. This exposure could enable attackers to gather information useful for further attacks or to compromise user privacy. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and has a low attack complexity, but it does require the attacker to have local access and some privileges on the system. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5, reflecting a medium severity level primarily due to the confidentiality impact and limited attack vector (local). There are no known exploits in the wild, and no official patches have been released at the time of publication. The vulnerability's impact is limited to information disclosure, with no direct effect on system integrity or availability. The kernel-level nature of the flaw means that the exposed information could be critical for attackers aiming to escalate privileges or bypass security controls in subsequent steps. Organizations still running Windows 10 Version 1809 should prioritize mitigation as this version is out of mainstream support, increasing risk exposure.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2024-38041 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information residing in kernel memory. This could include data that aids attackers in privilege escalation or lateral movement within networks, thereby increasing the risk of more severe attacks. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that rely on legacy Windows 10 1809 systems may face increased risk of data leakage. Although the vulnerability does not directly compromise system integrity or availability, the confidentiality breach could lead to regulatory compliance issues under GDPR, especially if personal or sensitive data is exposed. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation, but insider threats or attackers who gain initial footholds could leverage this vulnerability to gather valuable information. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, particularly as attackers often develop exploits after vulnerability disclosure. The medium severity rating suggests that while urgent patching is not critical, organizations should not delay remediation or mitigation efforts.

1. Upgrade affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported and fully patched Windows version, such as Windows 10 21H2 or later, or Windows 11, to eliminate exposure to this vulnerability. 2. Restrict local access to sensitive systems by enforcing strict access controls, including limiting administrative privileges and using least privilege principles. 3. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious local activity that could indicate attempts to exploit kernel information disclosure. 4. Harden systems by disabling unnecessary local accounts and services that could be leveraged by attackers to gain local access. 5. Implement network segmentation to isolate legacy systems and reduce the risk of lateral movement if an attacker gains local access. 6. Monitor security advisories from Microsoft for the release of patches or workarounds and apply them promptly once available. 7. Conduct regular security awareness training to reduce insider threat risks and educate users about the importance of reporting suspicious activity. 8. Use application whitelisting and control tools to prevent unauthorized execution of code that could exploit the vulnerability.