CVE-2024-38060 is a high-severity heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-122) found in the Windows Imaging Component (WIC) of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability allows remote code execution (RCE) due to improper handling of specially crafted image files processed by WIC. An attacker could exploit this flaw by convincing a user to open or process a malicious image file, triggering a heap overflow that enables arbitrary code execution in the context of the affected system. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8, indicating a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), requiring low attack complexity (AC:L) and only limited privileges (PR:L), but no user interaction (UI:N) is needed once the malicious file is processed. The vulnerability affects Windows 10 Version 1809, a legacy but still in-use OS version, and no known exploits are currently reported in the wild. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2024 and published in July 2024, with no patch links currently available, suggesting that mitigation or patching may be pending or in progress. This vulnerability poses a significant risk as it can lead to full system compromise if exploited, especially in environments where Windows 10 1809 remains deployed and image processing occurs frequently, such as document management systems or media handling applications.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-38060 can be substantial, particularly for enterprises and public sector entities still operating legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain control over affected machines, exfiltrate sensitive data, disrupt operations, or move laterally within networks. This is especially critical for sectors with stringent data protection requirements under GDPR, such as finance, healthcare, and government, where confidentiality and integrity breaches can result in severe regulatory penalties and reputational damage. The lack of user interaction requirement increases the risk of automated or stealthy attacks, potentially targeting network services or automated workflows that process images. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as weaponization could occur rapidly once details become widely known. Organizations relying on legacy Windows 10 versions should prioritize assessment and mitigation to avoid exposure to this vulnerability.

Given the absence of an official patch at the time of this report, European organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Identify and inventory all systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 to understand exposure scope. 2) Limit or disable the processing of untrusted or external image files through Windows Imaging Component, especially in automated workflows or email gateways. 3) Employ application whitelisting and restrict execution privileges to reduce the impact of potential exploitation. 4) Use network segmentation to isolate legacy systems and limit lateral movement opportunities. 5) Monitor logs and network traffic for anomalous activity related to image processing or unexpected process behavior. 6) Apply principle of least privilege to user accounts and services to minimize privileges required for image handling. 7) Prepare for rapid deployment of patches once Microsoft releases an official fix by testing updates in controlled environments. 8) Consider upgrading affected systems to supported Windows versions where this vulnerability is not present or has been patched. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific vulnerable component and operational context.