CVE-2024-38052 is a vulnerability identified in the Kernel Streaming WOW Thunk Service Driver component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 17763.0). The root cause is improper input validation (CWE-20), which allows an attacker with limited privileges and local access to the system to escalate their privileges to a higher level, potentially SYSTEM or administrative rights. This elevation of privilege occurs without requiring user interaction, making it a significant threat if an attacker gains local access. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by enabling unauthorized access to sensitive system functions and data, potentially allowing the attacker to install malicious software, alter system configurations, or disrupt services. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects a high severity, with an attack vector limited to local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), and requiring low privileges (PR:L). No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is officially published and recognized by CISA, indicating its criticality. The lack of patch links suggests that a fix may be pending or that mitigation involves upgrading or applying cumulative updates. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for organizations still operating Windows 10 Version 1809, which is an older release and may be out of mainstream support, increasing exposure risk.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-38052 can be substantial, especially in sectors relying on legacy Windows 10 1809 systems such as manufacturing, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. Successful exploitation allows attackers to gain elevated privileges locally, which can lead to full system compromise, unauthorized data access, and disruption of critical services. This can result in data breaches, operational downtime, and potential regulatory non-compliance under GDPR due to compromised confidentiality and integrity. The vulnerability's local attack vector means that insider threats or attackers who gain initial foothold via phishing or physical access can leverage this flaw to escalate privileges and move laterally within networks. Given the high severity and broad impact on system security, failure to address this vulnerability could facilitate advanced persistent threats (APTs) targeting European enterprises and government agencies.

To mitigate CVE-2024-38052, organizations should prioritize upgrading affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported and patched Windows version, as this older build is no longer receiving mainstream updates. If upgrading is not immediately feasible, applying any available cumulative security updates from Microsoft that address this vulnerability is critical. Additionally, organizations should enforce strict local access controls, including limiting administrative privileges, implementing robust endpoint protection, and monitoring for unusual local privilege escalation attempts. Employing application whitelisting and restricting execution of untrusted code can reduce exploitation risk. Regularly auditing systems for outdated OS versions and enforcing patch management policies will help prevent exposure. Network segmentation to isolate legacy systems and enhanced logging for kernel-level events can aid in early detection of exploitation attempts. Finally, educating users about the risks of local access compromise and enforcing strong physical security controls will further reduce attack surface.