CVE-2024-38122 is a vulnerability identified in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809, specifically affecting the Local Security Authority (LSA) Server component. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-908, which pertains to the use of uninitialized resources. In this context, the flaw arises because the LSA server improperly handles certain resources that have not been initialized before use. This can lead to an information disclosure scenario where sensitive data managed by the LSA server could be exposed to an attacker. The LSA server is a critical security component responsible for enforcing security policies, managing authentication, and handling credentials. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 5.5, indicating a medium severity level. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring the attacker to have local access with low privileges (PR:L), and no user interaction is needed (UI:N). The vulnerability impacts confidentiality (C:H) but does not affect integrity or availability. The scope remains unchanged (S:U). There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no official patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2024 and published in August 2024. Given that Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release, this vulnerability primarily affects systems that have not been upgraded or patched to newer Windows versions. The exploitation requires local access, which limits the attack surface but still poses a risk in environments where multiple users share systems or where attackers have gained limited access. The information disclosure could allow attackers to glean sensitive security information, potentially aiding further attacks or privilege escalation attempts.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-38122 depends largely on the prevalence of Windows 10 Version 1809 within their IT environments. Many enterprises have moved to newer Windows versions, but legacy systems, especially in industrial, governmental, or critical infrastructure sectors, may still run this version. The information disclosure could compromise sensitive security information managed by the LSA server, such as authentication tokens or credentials, which could facilitate lateral movement or privilege escalation within networks. This risk is particularly significant for organizations with shared workstations, remote access setups, or environments where local user accounts have limited separation. Confidentiality breaches could lead to exposure of sensitive data, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR), and reputational damage. However, since exploitation requires local access and no known exploits exist in the wild, the immediate risk is moderate. Organizations with strict access controls and up-to-date endpoint security may face lower risk, but those with legacy systems or less stringent controls could be more vulnerable.

1. Upgrade affected systems: The most effective mitigation is to upgrade Windows 10 Version 1809 systems to a supported and patched Windows version, as this vulnerability affects an older release. 2. Apply security updates: Monitor Microsoft security advisories for the release of patches addressing CVE-2024-38122 and apply them promptly once available. 3. Restrict local access: Limit local user accounts and enforce the principle of least privilege to reduce the risk of exploitation. 4. Implement strong endpoint protection: Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious local activity that could indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability. 5. Network segmentation: Segment critical systems to prevent lateral movement if an attacker gains local access to a vulnerable machine. 6. Audit and monitor: Regularly audit local user accounts and monitor logs for unusual access patterns or privilege escalations. 7. User education: Educate users about the risks of local access and encourage reporting of suspicious activity. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on legacy system management, local access restrictions, and proactive monitoring tailored to the nature of this vulnerability.