CVE-2024-38086 is a vulnerability identified in Microsoft Azure Kinect SDK version 1.0.0, classified under CWE-197 (Numeric Truncation Error). This type of error occurs when a numeric value is improperly truncated, leading to unexpected behavior or memory corruption. In this case, the truncation error can be exploited remotely to achieve code execution on affected systems. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.4 reflects a medium severity, with attack vector being physical (AV:P), high attack complexity (AC:H), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction (UI:N). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, indicating that successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2024 and published in July 2024, with no known exploits in the wild or patches currently available. The Azure Kinect SDK is used primarily in advanced sensing and spatial computing applications, often integrated into robotics, healthcare, and industrial automation. The numeric truncation error likely arises from improper handling of sensor data or SDK inputs, which an attacker could craft to trigger memory corruption and execute arbitrary code remotely. The lack of patches necessitates immediate attention to risk mitigation and monitoring for updates from Microsoft.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-38086 could be significant, especially for those deploying Azure Kinect SDK in critical infrastructure, healthcare, manufacturing, or research sectors. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, disruption of services, or manipulation of sensor data, undermining operational integrity. The remote code execution capability means attackers could gain persistent control over affected systems, potentially moving laterally within networks. Given the SDK’s role in spatial computing and robotics, compromised devices could cause physical safety risks or operational failures. The medium severity score suggests a moderate but tangible risk, particularly in environments where the SDK is exposed to untrusted networks or users. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive defense, but the lack of patches increases the urgency for containment and monitoring. European entities relying on Microsoft technologies should assess their exposure and implement compensating controls to reduce attack surface and detect anomalous activities.

1. Immediately inventory all systems using Azure Kinect SDK version 1.0.0 and assess exposure to untrusted networks. 2. Restrict network access to devices running the SDK, employing network segmentation and firewall rules to limit potential attack vectors. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any data processed by the SDK to prevent malformed inputs triggering the truncation error. 4. Monitor vendor communications closely for patch releases or security advisories from Microsoft and plan rapid deployment of updates once available. 5. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect unusual behaviors indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Conduct penetration testing and code review of applications integrating the SDK to identify potential exploitation paths. 7. Educate developers and system administrators about the vulnerability and enforce secure coding practices to avoid similar numeric truncation issues. 8. Consider temporary disabling or isolating the SDK in high-risk environments until a patch is released. 9. Maintain robust backup and recovery procedures to mitigate impact in case of compromise. 10. Collaborate with cybersecurity information sharing groups to stay informed about emerging threats related to this vulnerability.