CVE-2024-49079 is a high-severity use-after-free vulnerability (CWE-416) affecting Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability resides within the Input Method Editor (IME) component, which is responsible for processing complex input methods, such as those used for East Asian languages. A use-after-free flaw occurs when the software continues to use a pointer after the memory it points to has been freed, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. In this case, an attacker can exploit this vulnerability remotely with limited privileges (no prior authentication required) but requires user interaction. The CVSS 3.1 score of 7.8 reflects high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no privileges required. Successful exploitation could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user, potentially leading to full system compromise if the user has administrative rights. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the presence of this vulnerability in a widely deployed operating system version makes it a significant security concern. The lack of an available patch at the time of publication increases the urgency for mitigation and monitoring. The vulnerability’s exploitation vector is local (AV:L), meaning the attacker must have local access or be able to convince the user to perform an action (user interaction required). This could be achieved via malicious documents, links, or other social engineering techniques that trigger the vulnerable IME code path.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-49079 can be substantial, especially in environments where Windows 10 Version 1809 remains in use, such as legacy systems or specialized industrial setups. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, data theft, or disruption of critical services. Confidentiality breaches could expose sensitive corporate or personal data, while integrity and availability impacts could disrupt business operations. Given the IME component’s role in input processing, organizations with multilingual workforces or those using East Asian language support may be at higher risk. The vulnerability’s ability to be triggered via user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be effective attack vectors. This risk is heightened in sectors with high-value targets such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, which are prevalent across Europe. Additionally, the lack of a patch means organizations must rely on interim mitigations, increasing operational complexity and risk exposure. The vulnerability could also be leveraged as a foothold for further lateral movement within networks, amplifying its impact.

1. Immediate mitigation should focus on reducing the attack surface by disabling or limiting the use of Input Method Editors, especially if not required for business operations. 2. Implement strict application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to IME processes. 3. Educate users to be vigilant against phishing and social engineering attempts that could trigger the vulnerability, emphasizing caution with unsolicited documents or links. 4. Employ network segmentation to limit the ability of an attacker to move laterally if initial exploitation occurs. 5. Monitor system logs and endpoint telemetry for unusual activity associated with IME components or unexpected process behavior. 6. Prioritize upgrading or patching affected systems as soon as Microsoft releases an official fix; meanwhile, consider upgrading to a supported Windows version if feasible. 7. Use vulnerability management tools to identify and inventory systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 to ensure focused remediation efforts. 8. Apply principle of least privilege to user accounts to minimize the potential impact of code execution under user context.