CVE-2024-38058 is a vulnerability identified as a protection mechanism failure (CWE-693) in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809, specifically targeting the BitLocker full disk encryption feature. BitLocker is designed to protect data confidentiality and integrity by encrypting the entire disk, preventing unauthorized access even if the physical device is stolen or lost. This vulnerability allows an attacker with physical access to bypass BitLocker protections, effectively exposing encrypted data without requiring any privileges or user interaction. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.8, indicating a medium severity level, with an attack vector classified as physical (AV:P), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction (UI:N). The impact metrics indicate high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts (C:H/I:H/A:H), meaning the attacker can fully compromise the encrypted data and potentially affect system availability. The vulnerability does not currently have known exploits in the wild, and no official patches have been linked yet, though it is published and recognized by CISA. The flaw likely stems from a failure in BitLocker's protection mechanisms, possibly related to key management or hardware integration, allowing bypass of encryption safeguards. This vulnerability is critical for organizations relying on BitLocker to secure sensitive data on Windows 10 Version 1809 devices, especially those with physical access risks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-38058 is significant, particularly for sectors handling sensitive or regulated data such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. The ability to bypass BitLocker encryption undermines the confidentiality and integrity of stored data, potentially leading to data breaches, intellectual property theft, and compliance violations under GDPR and other data protection laws. The requirement for physical access limits remote exploitation but increases the risk from insider threats, lost or stolen devices, and inadequate physical security controls. The vulnerability also threatens availability if attackers manipulate encrypted drives to cause system failures. Organizations using Windows 10 Version 1809 in environments with less stringent physical security or high device mobility are especially vulnerable. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits over time. Failure to address this vulnerability could result in reputational damage, regulatory penalties, and operational disruptions.

To mitigate CVE-2024-38058, European organizations should prioritize upgrading affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a more recent, supported Windows version where this vulnerability is resolved. In the absence of an official patch, organizations must enforce strict physical security controls, including secure storage of devices, access restrictions to sensitive areas, and device tracking. Implementing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions can help identify suspicious activities related to device tampering. Organizations should also review and enhance their BitLocker configuration, ensuring the use of TPM with PIN or startup key protections to add layers of security. Regular audits of device encryption status and physical security policies are essential. Additionally, organizations should educate employees on the risks of device loss and enforce policies for immediate reporting and response to lost or stolen devices. Finally, monitoring threat intelligence sources for updates on exploit developments and patches is critical to timely remediation.