CVE-2024-38106 is a vulnerability identified in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0) that relates to improper locking of memory where sensitive data is stored, classified under CWE-591. This flaw exists in the Windows kernel and allows a local attacker with limited privileges to elevate their privileges to a higher level, potentially SYSTEM level, without requiring user interaction. The vulnerability arises because sensitive data is stored in memory that is not properly locked, making it accessible to unauthorized processes or threads. This can lead to exposure or manipulation of sensitive information, compromising confidentiality and integrity. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.0 reflects a high severity, with an attack vector requiring local access (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), low privileges (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no public exploits are known at this time, the vulnerability’s nature and the criticality of the Windows kernel make it a significant threat. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2024 and published in August 2024, with no patches currently linked, indicating that mitigation options may be limited until official updates are released. Organizations running this specific Windows 10 version should prioritize monitoring and access control to mitigate risk.

The vulnerability poses a significant risk to European organizations relying on Windows 10 Version 1809, particularly those in sectors with sensitive data such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. Exploitation could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges, enabling unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of system configurations, installation of persistent malware, or disruption of services. This could lead to data breaches, operational downtime, and loss of trust. Given the kernel-level nature of the vulnerability, successful exploitation could undermine the foundational security of affected systems. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation but increases risk from insider threats or compromised endpoints. The absence of user interaction lowers barriers for attackers once local access is obtained. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that exploitation could have severe consequences for compliance with European data protection regulations such as GDPR.

1. Apply official Microsoft patches immediately once they become available for Windows 10 Version 1809 to address this vulnerability. 2. Until patches are released, restrict local access to systems running the affected Windows version by enforcing strict access controls and limiting administrative privileges. 3. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for unusual privilege escalation attempts or suspicious kernel-level activity. 4. Conduct regular audits of user accounts and permissions to minimize the number of users with local access and administrative rights. 5. Use application whitelisting and hardened configurations to reduce the attack surface. 6. Educate IT staff and users about the risks of local privilege escalation and the importance of reporting suspicious behavior. 7. Consider upgrading to a more recent, supported Windows version where this vulnerability is not present, if feasible. 8. Employ network segmentation to isolate critical systems and reduce the impact of potential exploitation.