CVE-2024-38077 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Windows Remote Desktop Licensing Service component of Microsoft Windows Server 2019, specifically version 10.0.17763.0. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-122, indicating improper handling of memory buffers leading to overflow conditions. The flaw allows an unauthenticated attacker to send specially crafted requests to the Remote Desktop Licensing Service, triggering a buffer overflow that can overwrite memory and enable arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it highly exploitable remotely over the network. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8 reflects the critical nature of this vulnerability, with attack vector being network (AV:N), no attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction (UI:N). The impact metrics indicate complete compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the vulnerability’s characteristics suggest that weaponized exploits could emerge rapidly. The Remote Desktop Licensing Service is a critical component in managing licenses for Remote Desktop Services, often deployed in enterprise environments to enable remote access to Windows servers. Exploitation could lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, exfiltrate data, or disrupt services. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2024 and published in July 2024, with Microsoft expected to release patches. No patch links are currently provided, indicating that mitigation may rely on forthcoming updates and interim protective measures.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a severe threat to enterprise IT infrastructure, especially those relying on Windows Server 2019 for remote desktop services and licensing management. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system takeover, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges. This could result in data breaches, ransomware deployment, disruption of critical services, and lateral movement within corporate networks. Industries such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure operators are particularly at risk due to their reliance on secure remote access and sensitive data. The vulnerability’s remote, unauthenticated nature increases the attack surface, potentially allowing widespread exploitation if weaponized. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the critical severity demands immediate attention to prevent operational and reputational damage. Additionally, disruption of Remote Desktop Licensing Services could impact business continuity and compliance with licensing agreements.

1. Apply official security patches from Microsoft immediately upon release to remediate the vulnerability. 2. Until patches are available, restrict network access to the Remote Desktop Licensing Service using firewalls or network segmentation, limiting exposure to trusted management networks only. 3. Employ network-level authentication and VPNs to control remote access to Windows Server 2019 systems. 4. Monitor network traffic for anomalous activity targeting the Remote Desktop Licensing Service ports and protocols. 5. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify and block exploitation attempts. 6. Conduct regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on remote desktop services. 7. Review and minimize the number of servers running the Remote Desktop Licensing Service to reduce attack surface. 8. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential compromises. 9. Educate IT staff on the specifics of this vulnerability to ensure rapid detection and response. 10. Coordinate with Microsoft support channels for guidance and early access to patches if possible.