CVE-2024-38240 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability classified under CWE-125 found in the Windows Remote Access Connection Manager component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This flaw allows an attacker to read memory outside the intended buffer boundaries, which can lead to elevation of privilege by corrupting memory or leaking sensitive information. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable without requiring authentication or user interaction, but it has a high attack complexity, meaning some conditions must be met for successful exploitation. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.1, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2024 and published in September 2024, with no known exploits in the wild or patches currently available. The lack of patches means systems remain exposed, especially legacy environments that have not been updated. The vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers to gain SYSTEM-level privileges remotely, potentially allowing full control over affected machines. This poses a significant threat to enterprise environments relying on Windows 10 1809, particularly those exposing Remote Access Connection Manager services to untrusted networks. The vulnerability's network vector and lack of required privileges make it a critical concern for organizations with legacy Windows deployments.

The impact of CVE-2024-38240 is substantial for organizations worldwide still operating Windows 10 Version 1809. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise through privilege escalation, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges. This compromises confidentiality by exposing sensitive data, integrity by enabling unauthorized modifications, and availability by potentially causing system crashes or denial of service. Since the vulnerability is remotely exploitable without authentication or user interaction, attackers can target exposed systems over the network, increasing the risk of widespread exploitation. Critical infrastructure, government agencies, financial institutions, and enterprises with legacy Windows environments are particularly vulnerable. The absence of patches increases the window of exposure, making proactive mitigation essential. Organizations may face data breaches, ransomware attacks, or persistent footholds if exploited. The vulnerability also raises compliance and regulatory risks due to potential data loss or system compromise.

Given the absence of official patches, organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. First, restrict network access to the Remote Access Connection Manager service by applying firewall rules to limit exposure to trusted networks only. Employ network segmentation to isolate vulnerable Windows 10 1809 systems from critical assets. Enable and enforce strict access control policies and monitor network traffic for anomalous activities targeting the vulnerable service. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect suspicious memory access patterns or privilege escalation attempts. Consider upgrading affected systems to a supported Windows version with security updates as soon as possible. If upgrading is not immediately feasible, apply Microsoft’s recommended workarounds or mitigations once available. Regularly audit and inventory systems to identify those running Windows 10 1809 and prioritize remediation. Educate IT staff about this vulnerability and prepare incident response plans to quickly address potential exploitation attempts. Maintain up-to-date backups to recover from potential ransomware or destructive attacks stemming from exploitation.