CVE-2025-24983 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416, affecting the Win32 Kernel Subsystem of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1507 (build 10.0.10240.0). This vulnerability arises when the kernel improperly handles memory, freeing an object while it is still in use, which can lead to arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation. An attacker with authorized local access and low privileges can exploit this flaw to elevate their privileges to SYSTEM level, thereby gaining full control over the affected system. The attack complexity is high, meaning exploitation requires specific conditions or knowledge, but no user interaction is necessary once local access is obtained. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as it allows attackers to bypass security controls and potentially execute malicious code with kernel privileges. Although no public exploits are currently known, the vulnerability is considered significant due to the critical nature of kernel-level privilege escalation. No patches or updates have been released at the time of publication, increasing the urgency for mitigation through alternative means. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.0, reflecting a high severity with attack vector local, attack complexity high, privileges required low, and no user interaction. This vulnerability primarily affects legacy Windows 10 systems, which may still be in use in certain environments due to compatibility or operational constraints.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious risk, especially for those still operating legacy Windows 10 Version 1507 systems. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to access sensitive data, disrupt operations, or deploy further malware. Critical infrastructure, government agencies, and enterprises with legacy systems are particularly vulnerable. The ability to escalate privileges locally means that insider threats or attackers who gain initial foothold through other means can leverage this flaw to deepen their access. The lack of available patches increases the risk window, potentially leading to targeted attacks or exploitation in the wild once exploit code becomes available. The impact extends to confidentiality breaches, integrity violations through unauthorized code execution, and availability disruptions via system instability or denial of service. Organizations relying on this Windows version for operational technology or legacy applications may face increased exposure and potential regulatory compliance issues under GDPR if data breaches occur.

Given the absence of an official patch, European organizations should prioritize upgrading affected systems to a supported and patched Windows version to eliminate the vulnerability. Where immediate upgrade is not feasible, organizations should implement strict access controls to limit local user accounts and reduce the attack surface. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious kernel-level activity. Regularly audit and restrict administrative privileges, and enforce the principle of least privilege. Network segmentation can help contain potential compromises. Additionally, organizations should maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans tailored to privilege escalation scenarios. Monitoring security advisories from Microsoft and CISA for forthcoming patches or mitigations is critical. For legacy systems that must remain operational, consider deploying virtualization or sandboxing to isolate vulnerable components. Finally, user training to recognize and report suspicious local activity can aid early detection.