CVE-2024-49039

Overview

CVE-2024-49039 is a zero-day vulnerability in Windows that allows for a sandbox escape. It was used in malware campaigns in 2024, often paired with browser exploits (such as CVE-2024-9680) to install persistent malware on host systems.

Technical Details

• Vulnerability Type: Sandbox Escape / Local Privilege Escalation
• Affected Component: Windows Sandbox
• Attack Vector: Local
• Impact: Allows an attacker to escape the Windows Sandbox and execute code on the host system with elevated privileges
• Exploitation: Used in combination with browser zero-days to achieve full system compromise

Exploitation

Attackers combined CVE-2024-49039 with browser vulnerabilities (e.g., CVE-2024-9680 in Chrome) to break out of the sandbox environment and install malware persistently on the host.

This exploit chain was observed in targeted malware campaigns, where users were tricked into visiting malicious websites. The browser exploit would run in the sandbox, and CVE-2024-49039 would allow the malware to escape and gain a foothold on the system.

Affected Systems

• Windows 10
• Windows 11

Patch Information

Microsoft patched this vulnerability in late 2024. Users and administrators are strongly advised to apply the latest security updates to prevent exploitation.

Mitigation

• Apply the latest security updates from Microsoft.
• Use modern browsers with enhanced sandboxing and security features.
• Exercise caution when opening untrusted links or downloading files from unknown sources.
• Monitor for unusual process activity, especially involving sandboxed applications.

References