CVE-2024-38104 is a remote code execution vulnerability identified in the Windows Fax Service component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The root cause is an untrusted pointer dereference (CWE-822), which occurs when the Fax Service improperly handles pointers from untrusted sources. This flaw allows an attacker with low privileges (PR:L) to remotely execute arbitrary code on the affected system without requiring user interaction (UI:N). The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), meaning exploitation can occur remotely over the network, increasing the risk profile. The vulnerability affects system confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H), potentially leading to full system compromise. The scope is unchanged (S:U), indicating the vulnerability affects only the vulnerable component and does not extend beyond the impacted system. The exploitability is considered low complexity (AC:L), and no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date. The lack of a patch link suggests that a fix may be forthcoming or pending deployment. The Windows Fax Service is often overlooked but can be exposed on systems that have it enabled, especially in enterprise environments where legacy systems persist. This vulnerability underscores the risks of running unsupported or outdated Windows versions in production environments.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-38104 can be significant, particularly for those still operating Windows 10 Version 1809 in critical infrastructure, government, healthcare, and industrial sectors. Successful exploitation could lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain control over affected systems, steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or deploy ransomware. The vulnerability's network-based attack vector and lack of required user interaction increase the likelihood of automated or targeted attacks. Organizations relying on legacy systems or with insufficient patch management processes face heightened risk. Additionally, the Fax Service may be enabled by default or used in niche scenarios, increasing the attack surface. The potential for full system compromise threatens confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical systems, which could have cascading effects on business continuity and regulatory compliance within the EU. The absence of known exploits provides a window for proactive mitigation before active exploitation occurs.

1. Apply official security patches from Microsoft as soon as they are released for Windows 10 Version 1809 to remediate the vulnerability. 2. If patching is not immediately possible, disable the Windows Fax Service on all affected systems to eliminate the attack surface. 3. Restrict network access to the Fax Service using firewall rules, allowing only trusted hosts or internal networks to communicate with it. 4. Conduct an inventory of systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 and prioritize upgrading to supported Windows versions to reduce exposure to legacy vulnerabilities. 5. Implement network segmentation to isolate legacy systems and limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 6. Monitor network traffic for unusual activity targeting the Fax Service ports and enable logging to detect potential exploitation attempts. 7. Educate IT staff about the risks associated with legacy services and enforce strict patch management policies. 8. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify and respond to suspicious behaviors related to remote code execution attempts.