CVE-2024-38085 is a high-severity Use After Free (CWE-416) vulnerability affecting the Windows Graphics Component in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability allows an elevation of privilege (EoP) attack, where an attacker with limited privileges (low-level privileges) can exploit the flaw to execute arbitrary code with higher privileges, potentially SYSTEM level. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory in the graphics component, leading to a use-after-free condition. When exploited, this can result in full compromise of the affected system's confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high severity, with attack vector being local (AV:L), requiring low attack complexity (AC:L), and low privileges (PR:L), but no user interaction (UI:N). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches have been linked yet. However, given the nature of the vulnerability and its presence in an older Windows 10 version (1809), it poses a significant risk especially in environments where legacy systems remain in use. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2024 and published in July 2024, with enrichment from CISA, indicating recognition by US cybersecurity authorities. This vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers who have some initial access to escalate privileges and gain full control over affected systems.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-38085 can be substantial, particularly for those still operating Windows 10 Version 1809 in production environments. The elevation of privilege vulnerability can allow attackers who have gained limited access—such as through phishing, malware, or insider threats—to escalate their privileges to SYSTEM level, enabling them to disable security controls, install persistent malware, exfiltrate sensitive data, or disrupt operations. This could affect critical infrastructure, government agencies, financial institutions, and enterprises relying on legacy Windows 10 systems. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that data breaches, ransomware deployment, or system outages could result. Additionally, since the attack vector is local, insider threats or attackers who have compromised user accounts pose a significant risk. The lack of user interaction required makes automated or stealthy exploitation feasible once local access is obtained. European organizations with strict data protection regulations such as GDPR could face regulatory penalties if breaches occur due to exploitation of this vulnerability.

1. Immediate mitigation should focus on upgrading affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported and patched version of Windows 10 or Windows 11, as Microsoft typically addresses such vulnerabilities in cumulative updates for supported versions. 2. Until upgrades are feasible, implement strict access controls and monitoring to limit local access to trusted users only, reducing the risk of local exploitation. 3. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting suspicious privilege escalation behaviors related to use-after-free exploitation. 4. Harden systems by disabling unnecessary graphics features or components if possible, or applying any available vendor workarounds or mitigations once published. 5. Conduct regular audits of user privileges and remove or restrict accounts with unnecessary local privileges. 6. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential compromises. 7. Monitor threat intelligence feeds and vendor advisories for the release of patches or detection of exploitation in the wild to respond promptly.