CVE-2024-21415 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability classified under CWE-122, found in the SQL Server Native Client OLE DB Provider component of Microsoft SQL Server 2017 (GDR version 14.0.0). This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems by exploiting improper handling of memory buffers. The flaw can be triggered remotely over the network without requiring any privileges (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as convincing a user to connect to a malicious SQL Server instance or open a crafted file. Successful exploitation could lead to full compromise of the SQL Server process, allowing attackers to gain control over the database server, access sensitive data, modify or delete data, and disrupt availability. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.8 reflects high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability with low attack complexity and no privileges required. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, the vulnerability is considered critical due to the widespread use of SQL Server 2017 in enterprise environments and the potential for remote code execution. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on July 9, 2024, with no patches available at the time of reporting, increasing the urgency for mitigation and monitoring.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to data confidentiality, integrity, and availability, especially for industries relying heavily on Microsoft SQL Server 2017, such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized data access, data corruption, or denial of service, potentially causing operational disruptions and financial losses. The remote code execution capability means attackers could pivot within networks, escalating attacks beyond the initial compromise. Given the high adoption of Microsoft SQL Server in Europe, the threat could affect a large number of organizations, increasing the risk of widespread impact. Additionally, the requirement for user interaction may limit some attack vectors but does not eliminate the risk, particularly in environments where users frequently connect to external or untrusted SQL Server instances or open external database files. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure further exacerbates the risk, necessitating immediate compensating controls.

1. Apply official Microsoft patches immediately once released for SQL Server 2017 (GDR) to remediate the vulnerability. 2. Until patches are available, restrict network access to SQL Server instances by implementing strict firewall rules and network segmentation to limit exposure to untrusted networks. 3. Disable or restrict the use of the SQL Server Native Client OLE DB Provider where possible, especially in scenarios involving external or untrusted data sources. 4. Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted SQL Server instances or opening unknown database files to reduce the likelihood of user interaction exploitation. 5. Monitor SQL Server logs and network traffic for unusual or suspicious activity indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected connections or anomalous queries. 6. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block exploitation attempts targeting SQL Server processes. 7. Regularly review and update incident response plans to include scenarios involving SQL Server compromise. 8. Conduct vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on SQL Server environments to identify and remediate exposure.