CVE-2025-24044 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416, located in the Windows 10 Version 1809 Win32 Kernel Subsystem. This vulnerability arises when the kernel improperly manages memory, freeing an object while it is still in use, which can lead to undefined behavior. An authorized attacker with local access can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code in kernel mode, thereby elevating their privileges from a limited user to SYSTEM level. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and has a low attack complexity, making it relatively straightforward to exploit once local access is obtained. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity with impacts rated as high on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the critical nature of kernel-level privilege escalation. The affected product is specifically Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 17763.0), an older release that may still be present in enterprise environments that have not upgraded to newer Windows versions. The vulnerability was reserved in January 2025 and published in March 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. No patches or mitigation links were provided in the data, suggesting that organizations should monitor Microsoft advisories closely for updates. The vulnerability’s exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security controls, install persistent malware, or disrupt system operations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-24044 is significant, especially for those still operating Windows 10 Version 1809 in production environments. Successful exploitation allows local attackers to gain SYSTEM-level privileges, which can lead to full system compromise, data theft, or disruption of critical services. This is particularly concerning for sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure, where confidentiality and system integrity are paramount. The vulnerability could be leveraged as a stepping stone in multi-stage attacks, enabling lateral movement and persistence within networks. Since the vulnerability requires local access, insider threats or attackers who have already breached perimeter defenses pose the greatest risk. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate threat levels but does not eliminate the risk of future exploitation. European organizations with legacy systems or delayed patching cycles are more vulnerable. The potential impact on availability also raises concerns for operational continuity in industrial and public service environments.

Organizations should immediately inventory their Windows 10 systems to identify any running Version 1809 (build 17763.0). They should prioritize upgrading to a supported and patched Windows version if possible. If upgrading is not feasible, organizations must monitor Microsoft security advisories for patches or workarounds addressing CVE-2025-24044 and apply them promptly once available. Until patches are deployed, restrict local access to trusted personnel only and implement strict access controls and monitoring on endpoints running the affected version. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect suspicious kernel-level activities indicative of exploitation attempts. Regularly audit user privileges and remove unnecessary local administrator rights to reduce the attack surface. Network segmentation can limit the spread of an attacker who gains local access. Additionally, educate users about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and enforce strong physical security controls to prevent unauthorized local access. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to mitigate potential damage from exploitation.