CVE-2024-38051 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability classified under CWE-122, found in the Windows Graphics Component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability allows remote code execution (RCE) when a user opens or views a specially crafted graphic file, which triggers the overflow in the graphics processing code. The vulnerability requires user interaction (UI:R) but no privileges (PR:N), meaning any user can be targeted without elevated rights. The attack vector is local (AV:L), implying that the attacker must have some access to deliver the malicious graphic, such as via email, web download, or removable media. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H), allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code potentially with system-level privileges, leading to full system compromise. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the combination of impact and exploitability. Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be considered a significant risk. No official patch links are provided yet, but Microsoft is expected to release updates. The vulnerability is particularly relevant for organizations still operating Windows 10 Version 1809, which is an older, out-of-support or limited-support OS version, often found in legacy systems or specialized environments.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-38051 can be substantial, especially in sectors that rely on legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems such as manufacturing, healthcare, and government agencies. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, data breaches, ransomware deployment, or disruption of critical services. Confidentiality is at risk as attackers can access sensitive information; integrity can be compromised by unauthorized code execution; and availability can be disrupted through system crashes or malware. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver the malicious graphic payload. Organizations with limited patch management capabilities or legacy system dependencies face higher risks. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the public disclosure increases the likelihood of future exploit development. The threat also poses risks to supply chains and critical infrastructure within Europe, where Windows 10 remains widely used.

1. Prioritize upgrading or migrating systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported Windows version with ongoing security updates. 2. Apply Microsoft security patches immediately upon release for this vulnerability. 3. Implement strict email and web filtering to block or quarantine suspicious graphic files and attachments. 4. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected graphic files, emphasizing caution with email attachments and downloads. 5. Use application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to graphics processing. 6. Restrict local access to systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 to trusted personnel only, minimizing the attack surface. 7. Monitor systems for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts, including unexpected process launches or memory anomalies. 8. Employ network segmentation to isolate legacy systems and limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 9. Regularly back up critical data and verify restore procedures to mitigate impact from potential ransomware or destructive attacks leveraging this vulnerability.