CVE-2024-38065 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability classified under CWE-122, affecting Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability specifically targets the Secure Boot security feature, which is designed to ensure that only trusted software is loaded during the system boot process. By exploiting this buffer overflow, an attacker could bypass Secure Boot protections, potentially allowing unauthorized code execution early in the boot sequence. The CVSS 3.1 vector indicates the attack requires physical access (AV:P), has low attack complexity (AC:L), requires no privileges (PR:N), and no user interaction (UI:N). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H), meaning successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data theft, or denial of service. Although no public exploits are currently known, the vulnerability's presence in an older Windows 10 version that is still in use in many environments poses a significant risk. The lack of available patches at the time of publication means organizations must rely on interim mitigations and plan for upgrades. The vulnerability's nature suggests that attackers with physical access could implant persistent malware or bypass firmware-level security controls, undermining trust in system integrity.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-38065 is considerable, especially for those still operating Windows 10 Version 1809 in critical environments such as government, healthcare, finance, and industrial control systems. A successful exploit could allow attackers to bypass Secure Boot, leading to persistent malware infections that survive OS reinstalls or firmware re-flashes. This undermines system integrity and confidentiality, potentially exposing sensitive data or disrupting operations. The requirement for physical access limits remote exploitation but raises concerns about insider threats, supply chain attacks, or unauthorized physical access to devices. Organizations relying on legacy hardware or software may face increased risk due to delayed patching or upgrade cycles. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate urgency but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits in the future. The medium severity rating reflects this balance of impact and exploitability. Overall, the vulnerability could lead to significant operational disruption and data breaches if exploited in European contexts.

1. Prioritize upgrading affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported and patched Windows version to eliminate the vulnerability. 2. Until patches are available, enforce strict physical security controls to prevent unauthorized access to devices, including locked server rooms and endpoint security policies. 3. Implement hardware-based security features such as TPM and enable Secure Boot with verified keys to reduce the risk of bypass. 4. Monitor system boot logs and firmware integrity using endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting boot-level anomalies. 5. Employ network segmentation to limit lateral movement if a device is compromised. 6. Educate staff on the risks of physical access attacks and enforce policies for device handling and storage. 7. Maintain up-to-date asset inventories to identify and remediate legacy systems promptly. 8. Engage with Microsoft security advisories for patch releases and apply updates immediately upon availability.