CVE-2024-38078 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 that affects Microsoft Windows 11 version 21H2, specifically targeting the Xbox Wireless Adapter component. Use-after-free vulnerabilities occur when a program continues to use a pointer after the memory it points to has been freed, leading to undefined behavior including memory corruption. In this case, the vulnerability allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system without requiring any authentication or user interaction, which significantly increases the risk profile. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.5 indicates a high severity, with the vector string showing the attack is remote (AV:A - adjacent network), requires high attack complexity (AC:H), no privileges (PR:N), and no user interaction (UI:N). The scope is unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). The vulnerability is specifically linked to the Xbox Wireless Adapter, a device that enables wireless communication between Xbox controllers and Windows PCs. Exploiting this flaw could allow attackers to run malicious code remotely, potentially taking full control of the system. Although no exploits are known in the wild yet and no patches have been released, the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be treated as a critical risk. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2024 and published in July 2024. Given the nature of the flaw and the affected component, attackers would likely need to be on the same local or adjacent network segment to exploit it, limiting but not eliminating exposure. The vulnerability is relevant for organizations using Windows 11 21H2 with Xbox Wireless Adapter hardware or software components.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those with Windows 11 21H2 deployments and usage of Xbox Wireless Adapters, which may be common in gaming, development, or multimedia environments. Successful exploitation could lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain full control over affected systems, steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or deploy ransomware. The requirement for adjacent network access reduces the risk of wide-scale internet-based attacks but increases the threat within corporate LANs, public Wi-Fi, or shared networks. This could impact confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical systems. Organizations with remote or hybrid work environments that use wireless peripherals may face increased exposure. The lack of current exploits provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the absence of patches means organizations must rely on network controls and monitoring. The impact extends to operational disruption, potential data breaches, and reputational damage, particularly for sectors with high reliance on Windows 11 and wireless gaming peripherals.

1. Restrict network access to the Xbox Wireless Adapter component by segmenting networks and limiting adjacency to trusted devices only. 2. Disable or uninstall the Xbox Wireless Adapter driver or software on systems where it is not required. 3. Monitor network traffic for unusual activity related to the Xbox Wireless Adapter, including unexpected wireless connections or data flows. 4. Implement strict access controls and network segmentation to isolate vulnerable devices from sensitive systems. 5. Prepare for rapid deployment of official patches from Microsoft once released by establishing update testing and deployment procedures. 6. Educate users about the risks of connecting unknown wireless devices and enforce policies to prevent unauthorized peripheral use. 7. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect potential exploitation attempts targeting use-after-free vulnerabilities. 8. Regularly audit and update device drivers and firmware to minimize exposure to known vulnerabilities. 9. Employ network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) tuned to detect anomalies in wireless adapter communications. 10. Coordinate with IT and security teams to ensure incident response plans include scenarios involving wireless adapter exploitation.