CVE-2024-38058 is a vulnerability identified in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809, specifically affecting the BitLocker security feature. BitLocker is a full disk encryption technology designed to protect data by providing encryption for entire volumes. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-693, which relates to Protection Mechanism Failure, indicating that the security controls intended to protect sensitive data can be bypassed. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.8, reflecting a medium severity level. The vector string (AV:P/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H) indicates that the attack requires physical access (AV:P), has low attack complexity (AC:L), requires no privileges (PR:N) or user interaction (UI:N), and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a high degree (C:H/I:H/A:H). The vulnerability allows an attacker with physical access to bypass BitLocker protections, potentially gaining unauthorized access to encrypted data, modifying it, or causing denial of service. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it undermines the fundamental trust in BitLocker’s encryption, which is widely used in enterprise and governmental environments to secure sensitive information on Windows 10 devices. The lack of required privileges or user interaction means that an attacker with physical access can exploit this vulnerability without needing to compromise user credentials or trick users into executing malicious actions. This makes the vulnerability a significant risk in scenarios where devices may be lost, stolen, or accessed by unauthorized personnel.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk especially in sectors handling sensitive or regulated data such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. The ability to bypass BitLocker encryption compromises data confidentiality, potentially exposing personal data protected under GDPR and other privacy regulations. Integrity and availability impacts mean that attackers could alter or destroy data, leading to operational disruptions and loss of trust. Organizations relying on Windows 10 Version 1809 devices for endpoint security may face increased risk of data breaches if devices are physically accessed by malicious actors. This could result in regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and financial losses. The medium severity rating and the requirement for physical access somewhat limit the attack surface; however, the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability elevates the overall risk profile. European organizations with mobile workforces, remote or hybrid working models, or those using portable devices in less controlled environments are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, sectors with high-value intellectual property or critical operational data stored on such devices are at increased risk of espionage or sabotage.

Given the absence of an official patch at this time, European organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. These include enforcing strict physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access to devices, such as secure storage, access controls, and device tracking. Organizations should consider upgrading affected systems to a newer, supported Windows version where this vulnerability is not present or has been patched. Employing multi-factor authentication for device access and leveraging additional encryption layers at the file or application level can reduce risk. Regularly auditing and inventorying devices running Windows 10 Version 1809 will help identify vulnerable endpoints. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions should be configured to monitor for suspicious physical access or tampering attempts. Organizations should also educate employees about the risks of device loss or theft and enforce policies for immediate reporting and response. Finally, monitoring official Microsoft channels for patches or updates related to CVE-2024-38058 is critical to apply fixes promptly once available.