CVE-2025-24072 is a high-severity use-after-free vulnerability (CWE-416) found in the Microsoft Local Security Authority Server (LSASS) component of Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability allows an authorized local attacker to elevate privileges by exploiting improper memory management within LSASS, where a previously freed memory object is accessed again. Such use-after-free conditions can lead to memory corruption, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges or cause denial of service. The vulnerability requires local access and some level of privileges (low privileges) but does not require user interaction. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no user interaction needed. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches have been linked yet. LSASS is a critical Windows component responsible for enforcing security policies, managing user authentication, and handling sensitive credentials, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous if exploited. Since the affected version is Windows 10 Version 1809, which is an older release, many organizations may still be running this version in legacy environments, increasing their risk exposure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the critical role of LSASS in Windows security. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges locally, potentially leading to full system compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive data, and disruption of services. This is especially concerning for sectors with strict data protection requirements such as finance, healthcare, and government institutions across Europe. The vulnerability could facilitate lateral movement within networks if attackers gain initial footholds on affected systems. Given the high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, exploitation could result in data breaches, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations), operational downtime, and reputational damage. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk, but the presence of a high-severity vulnerability in a widely used OS component means organizations should act proactively to mitigate exposure.

European organizations should prioritize the following mitigations: 1) Identify and inventory all systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 to assess exposure. 2) Apply any available security updates or patches from Microsoft as soon as they are released; monitor Microsoft security advisories closely. 3) If patching is not immediately possible, consider isolating or restricting access to affected systems, especially limiting local access to trusted users only. 4) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious activities indicative of privilege escalation attempts targeting LSASS. 5) Enforce the principle of least privilege to minimize the number of users with local access rights that could exploit this vulnerability. 6) Regularly audit and review local user accounts and permissions. 7) Consider upgrading affected systems to newer, supported Windows versions where this vulnerability is not present. 8) Implement network segmentation to contain potential compromises and limit lateral movement. 9) Educate IT staff about this vulnerability and the importance of timely patch management and monitoring.