CVE-2024-28914 is a high-severity heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Microsoft SQL Server 2022, specifically affecting the cumulative update 12 (version 16.0.0). The vulnerability resides in the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server, which is a component used to facilitate database connectivity and data access. A heap-based buffer overflow occurs when data exceeding the allocated buffer size is written to the heap memory, potentially leading to memory corruption. This can allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely. The vulnerability is exploitable over the network without requiring prior authentication (AV:N/PR:N), but it does require user interaction (UI:R), such as the victim initiating a connection or query that triggers the flaw. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, as successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to take full control of the affected SQL Server instance. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.8, reflecting its critical impact and relatively low complexity to exploit. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the presence of this vulnerability in a widely deployed database platform makes it a significant risk. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-122 (Heap-based Buffer Overflow), which is a common and dangerous class of memory corruption bugs. Given the critical role of SQL Server in enterprise environments for data storage, processing, and application backend services, exploitation could lead to data breaches, service disruption, and lateral movement within networks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-28914 is substantial due to the widespread use of Microsoft SQL Server 2022 in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and manufacturing. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, including personal data protected under GDPR, intellectual property, and critical business information. The ability to execute arbitrary code remotely means attackers could deploy ransomware, steal data, or disrupt operations. This poses a risk not only to individual organizations but also to critical infrastructure and public services that rely on SQL Server databases. The high severity and network exploitable nature of this vulnerability increase the urgency for European entities to prioritize patching and mitigation. Additionally, the requirement for user interaction may limit mass exploitation but does not eliminate targeted attacks, especially spear-phishing or social engineering campaigns that could trick users into triggering the vulnerability.

1. Immediate application of the latest cumulative update or security patch from Microsoft for SQL Server 2022 CU12 once available is the most effective mitigation. Since no patch links are currently provided, organizations should monitor Microsoft’s official security advisories closely. 2. Restrict network access to SQL Server instances by implementing strict firewall rules and network segmentation to limit exposure to untrusted networks. 3. Employ application-layer gateways or proxy solutions that can inspect and filter SQL traffic to detect anomalous or malicious queries. 4. Enforce the principle of least privilege on SQL Server accounts and services to minimize the impact if exploitation occurs. 5. Monitor SQL Server logs and network traffic for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected connections or commands. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risk of social engineering attacks that could trigger the vulnerability, emphasizing caution with unsolicited database queries or connections. 7. Consider deploying runtime application self-protection (RASP) or host-based intrusion prevention systems (HIPS) that can detect and block heap overflow exploitation attempts in real time. 8. Regularly back up critical databases and verify recovery procedures to ensure resilience against potential ransomware or destructive attacks stemming from exploitation.