CVE-2024-38014: Windows 10 Privilege Escalation Flaw

CVE-2024-38014 Overview

Windows Installer Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability affects multiple Microsoft Windows versions, allowing local attackers to escalate privileges on the affected systems.

Critical Impact
This vulnerability enables attackers to gain high-level system privileges through local exploitation, potentially leading to full system compromise.

Affected Products

Microsoft Windows 10 1507
Microsoft Windows 11 21H2
Microsoft Windows Server 2019

Discovery Timeline

Not Available - Vulnerability discovered by Not Available
Not Available - Responsible disclosure to Microsoft
Not Available - CVE CVE-2024-38014 assigned
Not Available - Microsoft releases security patch
2024-09-10 - CVE CVE-2024-38014 published to NVD
2025-10-28 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2024-38014

Vulnerability Analysis

This vulnerability exploits inadequacies in the Windows Installer, where insufficient permission checks allow low-privileged users to gain elevated privileges. Due to incorrect handling of specific permission settings, an attacker could manipulate the installers for unauthorized privilege escalation.

Root Cause

The issue originates from improper validation of file permissions within the Windows Installer's handling processes.

Attack Vector

The vulnerability requires local access to the target system, focusing on the Windows Installer during specific operations.

powershell

# Example exploitation code (sanitized)
# Incorrect permission setting can be exploited by local user
(Get-Item 'C:\Path\To\Installer.exe').SetAccessControl(
    (New-Object System.Security.AccessControl.FileSecurity)
    .SetAccessRuleProtection($false, $false))

Detection Methods for CVE-2024-38014

Indicators of Compromise

Unusual modification of installer executable file permissions
Unexpected user account privilege escalations
Unauthorized access attempts logged in security event logs

Detection Strategies

Leverage file integrity monitoring solutions to detect modifications in access permissions of installer files. Utilize event log monitoring for abnormal access attempts or privilege escalations.

Monitoring Recommendations

Applications such as SentinelOne Endpoint Protection can proactively monitor and block unauthorized escalation attempts by analyzing behavior anomalies in real-time.

How to Mitigate CVE-2024-38014

Immediate Actions Required

Audit existing installer files for permission anomalies
Monitor for changes in system privilege levels
Enforce the principle of least privilege for user accounts

Patch Information

Patch details are available via Microsoft's advisory. Applying relevant patches ensures vulnerabilities are mitigated.

Workarounds

Until patches can be applied, administrators should restrict access to critical installer files and execute regular permission audits.

bash

# Configuration example
# Restrict access to installer files
icacls "C:\Path\To\Installer.exe" /deny Everyone:(F)