CVE-2024-49114 is a high-severity elevation of privilege vulnerability affecting Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809, specifically version 10.0.17763.0. The vulnerability arises from a missing synchronization issue in the Windows Cloud Files Mini Filter Driver, which is responsible for managing cloud file operations and their integration with the local file system. The underlying weakness is classified under CWE-820 (Missing Synchronization), indicating that concurrent operations are not properly synchronized, potentially leading to race conditions or inconsistent states. An attacker with limited privileges (low-level privileges) on the affected system can exploit this flaw to escalate their privileges to a higher level, potentially SYSTEM or administrative rights, without requiring user interaction. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with an attack vector limited to local access (AV:L), low complexity (AC:L), and requiring privileges (PR:L) but no user interaction (UI:N). The scope remains unchanged (S:U). Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability’s characteristics make it a significant risk, especially in environments where Windows 10 Version 1809 is still in use. The absence of a published patch link suggests that remediation may still be pending or in progress, underscoring the need for immediate attention from affected organizations.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious risk, particularly in sectors relying on legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems, such as manufacturing, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges, enabling them to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, deploy malware, or disrupt operations. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that data breaches, ransomware attacks, or system takeovers could result. Given the local attack vector, insider threats or attackers who have gained initial footholds through other means could leverage this vulnerability to deepen their access. The lack of user interaction requirement increases the risk of automated or stealthy exploitation. European organizations with strict data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR) could face significant compliance and reputational consequences if this vulnerability is exploited.

1. Immediate identification and inventory of all systems running Windows 10 Version 1809, focusing on those with the affected build 10.0.17763.0. 2. Apply any available security updates or patches from Microsoft as soon as they are released. In the absence of an official patch, consider temporary mitigations such as disabling or restricting the Windows Cloud Files Mini Filter Driver if operationally feasible, or limiting local user privileges to the minimum necessary. 3. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on systems running the vulnerable version to detect unusual privilege escalation attempts or suspicious activities. 4. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of identifying exploitation attempts related to privilege escalation vulnerabilities. 5. Educate system administrators and security teams about the vulnerability and the importance of patch management, especially for legacy systems. 6. Plan and accelerate migration away from Windows 10 Version 1809 to supported and updated Windows versions to reduce exposure to this and similar vulnerabilities.