CVE-2024-38061 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) that affects Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The issue lies in the Distributed Component Object Model (DCOM) Remote Cross-Session Activation functionality, which improperly restricts access controls, allowing an attacker with low privileges to perform elevation of privilege attacks. Specifically, the vulnerability enables an attacker to remotely activate DCOM components across user sessions without proper authorization checks, thereby gaining higher privileges on the affected system. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.5, reflecting a network attack vector (AV:N), high attack complexity (AC:H), low privileges required (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to its potential to compromise system security and control. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on July 9, 2024, with no patch links currently provided, indicating that organizations must monitor for updates and apply them promptly once available. The improper access control in DCOM can be exploited remotely, making it a critical concern for network-exposed systems running the affected Windows version.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation, allowing attackers to gain administrative control over affected Windows 10 Version 1809 systems. This can result in data breaches, disruption of critical services, and potential lateral movement within corporate networks. Sectors such as government, finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on Windows 10 systems and the sensitive nature of their data. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that exploitation could lead to severe operational and reputational damage. The network-based attack vector increases the risk of remote exploitation, especially in environments with exposed or poorly segmented networks. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits once patches are released or if the vulnerability is reverse-engineered.

European organizations should prioritize the following mitigations: 1) Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely and apply official patches for Windows 10 Version 1809 as soon as they become available. 2) Restrict DCOM activation permissions using Group Policy or local security policies to limit which users and services can activate DCOM components remotely. 3) Implement network segmentation and firewall rules to restrict access to DCOM-related ports and services, reducing the attack surface. 4) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for unusual privilege escalation activities. 5) Regularly audit user privileges and remove unnecessary administrative rights to minimize the impact of potential exploitation. 6) Ensure that systems are upgraded to supported Windows versions where possible, as Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release with limited support. 7) Conduct security awareness training to inform IT staff about the risks and mitigation strategies related to DCOM vulnerabilities.