CVE-2024-21338

Overview

CVE-2024-21338 is a zero-day vulnerability in the Windows AppLocker driver. It was exploited by North Korean threat actors in 2024 to gain kernel-level access and disable security tools on compromised systems.

Technical Details

• Vulnerability Type: Privilege Escalation
• Affected Component: Windows AppLocker Driver
• Attack Vector: Local
• Impact: Allows an attacker to gain kernel-level access and turn off security tools
• Exploitation: Exploited by North Korean threat actors in targeted attacks
• Patch Date: 2024

Exploitation

CVE-2024-21338 was exploited by North Korean threat actors to gain kernel-level access on Windows systems. This allowed them to disable security tools, making it easier to deploy additional malware or conduct espionage activities.

The vulnerability was used in targeted attacks, often as part of a multi-stage exploit chain to achieve full system compromise.

Affected Systems

• Windows 10
• Windows 11
• Windows Server (multiple versions)

Patch Information

Microsoft released security updates for this vulnerability in 2024. Users and administrators are strongly advised to apply the update immediately to prevent exploitation.

For systems that cannot be patched, Microsoft recommends monitoring for suspicious activity and restricting access to the AppLocker driver.

Mitigation

• Apply the latest security updates from Microsoft.
• Monitor for unusual kernel-level access attempts.
• Restrict access to the AppLocker driver if not required.
• Use modern endpoint protection solutions to detect and block exploit attempts.

References