CVE-2024-28913 is a high-severity heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Microsoft SQL Server 2019, specifically in the cumulative update 25 (version 15.0.0). The vulnerability resides in the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server, a component used to facilitate database connectivity and data access. The flaw is categorized under CWE-122, indicating a heap-based buffer overflow, which occurs when the software writes more data to a buffer located on the heap than it can hold. This can corrupt adjacent memory, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network without requiring prior authentication (AV:N/PR:N), although it does require user interaction (UI:R), such as triggering a crafted database query or connection. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Successful exploitation could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the SQL Server service account, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, or disruption of database services. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and patched by Microsoft. The vulnerability affects Microsoft SQL Server 2019 CU25, a widely deployed enterprise database platform used globally for critical business applications.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-28913 could be significant due to the widespread use of Microsoft SQL Server 2019 in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and manufacturing. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, including personal data protected under GDPR, intellectual property, and operational data. The ability to execute remote code could allow attackers to deploy ransomware, disrupt business continuity, or pivot to other internal systems. Given the high privileges typically assigned to SQL Server services, the compromise could extend beyond the database server to the broader IT infrastructure. This poses risks to data confidentiality, integrity, and availability, potentially resulting in regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and financial losses. The requirement for user interaction may limit automated exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where users or automated systems interact with SQL Server instances remotely or via applications. The absence of known exploits in the wild suggests a window for proactive patching and mitigation before active attacks emerge.

1. Immediate application of the latest security updates from Microsoft for SQL Server 2019 CU25 is critical to remediate this vulnerability. Since no patch links were provided, organizations should verify and deploy the official cumulative update or security patch from Microsoft’s update catalog or security advisories. 2. Restrict network access to SQL Server instances by implementing network segmentation and firewall rules that limit exposure to trusted hosts and management networks only. 3. Employ the principle of least privilege by ensuring SQL Server service accounts run with minimal necessary permissions to reduce the impact of potential exploitation. 4. Monitor SQL Server logs and network traffic for unusual activities, such as unexpected connection attempts or anomalous queries that could indicate exploitation attempts. 5. Disable or restrict use of the OLE DB Driver for SQL Server if not required, or consider using alternative data access methods with better security controls. 6. Implement multi-factor authentication and strong access controls for all users interacting with SQL Server instances to reduce the risk of social engineering or user interaction exploitation. 7. Conduct regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on database servers to detect and remediate potential weaknesses proactively. 8. Educate users and administrators about the risks of interacting with untrusted data sources or executing unverified queries that could trigger the vulnerability.