Microsoft · Windows · CVE-2024-38193
**Name of the Vulnerable Software and Affected Versions**
Microsoft Windows versions prior to the August 2024 update
microsoft windows 10 1507 (<10.0.10240.20751)
microsoft windows 10 1607 (<10.0.14393.7259)
microsoft windows 10 1809 (<10.0.17763.6189)
microsoft windows 10 21h2 (<10.0.19044.4780)
microsoft windows 10 22h2 (<10.0.19045.4780)
**Description**
The issue is related to a privilege escalation bug in the Windows Ancillary Function Driver (AFD.sys) for WinSock. It has been actively exploited by the Lazarus Group, a North Korea-linked APT group, to gain SYSTEM privileges on the latest Windows operating systems. The vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate kernel structures, gaining read and write access. It is a use-after-free flaw in the AFD.sys driver, which is installed by default on all Windows devices, making it a significant threat. The estimated number of potentially affected devices worldwide is not specified, but it is considered a major threat due to the widespread use of Windows devices.
**Recommendations**
As a temporary workaround, consider disabling the `afd.sys` driver until a patch is available.
Restrict access to the vulnerable module `AFD.sys` to minimize the risk of exploitation.
Apply the August 2024 updates released by Microsoft to patch the vulnerability.
Update Microsoft Windows to a version that includes the fix for this issue.