Zero-Day Vulnerability in Windows (CVE-2024-49138): PoC Released, Exploited in the Wild
Summary
OEM | Microsoft |
Severity | Critical |
CVSS Score | 7.8 |
CVE | CVE-2024-49138 |
Exploited in Wild | Yes |
Patch/Remediation Available | Yes |
Advisory Version | 1.0 |
Publicly POC Available | Yes |
Overview
The vulnerability CVE-2024-49138, affecting the Windows Common Log File System (CLFS) driver, enables attackers to gain SYSTEM privileges via a heap-based buffer overflow. Security researcher MrAle_98 published a proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit, increasing its potential misuse.
Vulnerability Name | CVE ID | Product Affected | Severity |
CLFS Privilege Escalation | CVE-2024-49138 | Microsoft Windows | High |
Technical Summary
CVE-2024-49138 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the Windows Common Log File System (CLFS) driver, allowing attackers to escalate privileges to SYSTEM level. It affects a wide range of Windows systems, including the latest versions, such as Windows 11 23H2. Initially discovered by CrowdStrike’s Advanced Research Team, Microsoft confirmed active exploitation prior to its December 2024 patch release. Security researcher MrAle_98 published a proof-of-concept exploit on GitHub, increasing the likelihood of threat actor replication and exploitation.
CVE ID | System Affected | Vulnerability Details | Impact |
CVE-2024-49138 | Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server 2008–2025 | Heap buffer overflow in CLFS driver enabling SYSTEM access. Exploited in the wild and PoC publicly released. | Enables attackers to elevate their privileges to SYSTEM level, granting them complete control over an affected device. |
Remediations
- Update Systems: Apply Microsoft’s December 2024 patches without delay.
- Monitor Systems: Be alert for unusual privilege escalations or indicators of compromise.
- Limit Access: Implement robust access controls and harden systems.
Conclusion:
The public release of a proof-of-concept exploit heightens risks, making immediate patching essential. Organizations must prioritize updates, monitor for exploitation, and implement strict access controls.
References
- https://securityonline.info/zero-day-vulnerability-in-windows-exploited-cve-2024-49138-poc-code-released/
- https://github.com/MrAle98/CVE-2024-49138-POC?tab=readme-ov-file
- https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/en-US/vulnerability/CVE-2024-49138
- https://intruceptlabs.com/2024/12/microsoft-december-2024-patch-tuesday-critical-fixes-for-zero-day-and-remote-code-execution/