CVE-2024-28909 is a high-severity heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-122) affecting Microsoft SQL Server 2022, specifically version 16.0.0 with cumulative update 12. The vulnerability resides in the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server, which is used to facilitate database connectivity and data access. A heap-based buffer overflow occurs when data exceeds the allocated buffer size on the heap, potentially allowing an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory. This can lead to arbitrary code execution, system crashes, or data corruption. In this case, the vulnerability enables remote code execution (RCE) without requiring privileges (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as a user initiating a connection or query that triggers the flaw. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), meaning an attacker can exploit the vulnerability remotely over the network without physical access. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated high), allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code with the same privileges as the SQL Server service, potentially leading to full system compromise. The scope is unchanged (S:U), indicating the vulnerability affects only the vulnerable component and does not extend beyond it. Although no known exploits are currently observed in the wild, the high CVSS score of 8.8 and the critical nature of SQL Server deployments make this a significant risk. No official patches or mitigation links are provided yet, but Microsoft is expected to release updates. The vulnerability was reserved in March 2024 and published in April 2024, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

European organizations relying on Microsoft SQL Server 2022 for critical database operations face substantial risk from this vulnerability. SQL Server is widely used across sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and manufacturing in Europe, where data confidentiality and integrity are paramount due to strict regulatory environments like GDPR. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized data access, data manipulation, or service disruption, severely impacting business continuity and compliance. The remote code execution capability means attackers could deploy malware, ransomware, or establish persistent footholds within enterprise networks. Given the network attack vector and lack of required privileges, attackers could exploit this vulnerability from outside the network perimeter, increasing exposure. The requirement for user interaction somewhat limits automated exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where users regularly connect to external or untrusted data sources. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the high severity demands urgent attention to prevent potential targeted attacks against European critical infrastructure and enterprises.

1. Immediate deployment of any available Microsoft patches or cumulative updates addressing this vulnerability once released. Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely for updates. 2. Restrict network access to SQL Server instances by implementing strict firewall rules and network segmentation to limit exposure to untrusted networks. 3. Enforce the principle of least privilege on accounts interacting with SQL Server to minimize potential damage from exploitation. 4. Disable or limit the use of the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server where feasible, or replace it with alternative, less vulnerable data access methods. 5. Implement application-layer filtering and input validation to prevent malformed queries or data that could trigger the buffer overflow. 6. Monitor SQL Server logs and network traffic for unusual activities indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected connection patterns or errors related to memory corruption. 7. Educate users and administrators about the risk and the need to avoid interacting with untrusted data sources or executing unverified queries. 8. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behaviors related to memory corruption or code execution attempts on SQL Server hosts.