CVE-2024-49105 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). It is classified under CWE-284, which pertains to improper access control. The vulnerability specifically affects the Remote Desktop Client component, enabling remote code execution (RCE). This means that an attacker could potentially execute arbitrary code on a vulnerable system remotely, without needing physical access. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.4, indicating a high level of severity. The vector string (CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:R/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:U/RL:O/RC:C) reveals that the attack can be launched over a network (AV:N) with low attack complexity (AC:L), but requires the attacker to have high privileges (PR:H) and user interaction (UI:R). The scope is changed (S:C), meaning the vulnerability affects resources beyond the initially vulnerable component. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). The vulnerability is currently published but no known exploits are reported in the wild. No patch links are provided yet, suggesting that remediation may still be pending or in progress. The vulnerability arises from improper access control, which could allow an attacker with high privileges and user interaction to bypass security restrictions and execute code remotely via the Remote Desktop Client, potentially leading to full system compromise.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those still operating legacy systems such as Windows 10 Version 1809, which is beyond mainstream support. The Remote Desktop Client is widely used for remote administration and teleworking, making it a critical attack vector. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, disruption of services, and lateral movement within corporate networks. Given the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, sensitive data could be exfiltrated or destroyed, and critical infrastructure could be disrupted. Organizations in sectors like finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are particularly at risk due to the potential for severe operational and reputational damage. The requirement for high privileges and user interaction somewhat limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where privileged users may be targeted via phishing or social engineering. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not preclude future exploitation, especially as threat actors often weaponize such vulnerabilities rapidly after disclosure.

European organizations should prioritize upgrading or patching systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 as soon as official patches become available from Microsoft. In the interim, organizations should restrict Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) access using network-level controls such as VPNs, firewalls, and IP whitelisting to limit exposure. Enforce the principle of least privilege to minimize the number of users with high privileges who can interact with the Remote Desktop Client. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for remote access to reduce the risk of credential compromise. Conduct user awareness training to mitigate risks related to social engineering and user interaction requirements. Monitor network traffic and endpoint logs for unusual RDP activity or signs of exploitation attempts. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to remote code execution. Finally, consider migrating affected systems to supported Windows versions that receive regular security updates to reduce exposure to legacy vulnerabilities.