CVE-2024-28915 is a high-severity heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-122) affecting Microsoft SQL Server 2019, specifically version 15.0.0 with cumulative update 25. The vulnerability resides in the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server, a component used to facilitate database connectivity and communication. A heap-based buffer overflow occurs when more data is written to a buffer located in the heap than it can hold, potentially overwriting adjacent memory. This can lead to arbitrary code execution, denial of service, or system compromise. In this case, the vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute code on the affected system without requiring prior authentication (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 that triggers the vulnerability. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 8.8, indicating a high severity with the following vector: network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction required (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and thus could be targeted by attackers. The absence of a patch link suggests that a fix may be pending or not yet publicly available at the time of this report. Given the critical role of SQL Server in enterprise environments, exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data theft, or disruption of critical business operations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-28915 could be significant. Microsoft SQL Server 2019 is widely deployed across various sectors including finance, healthcare, government, and manufacturing in Europe. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of critical services, and potential regulatory non-compliance under GDPR due to data breaches. The remote code execution capability means attackers could deploy ransomware, steal intellectual property, or pivot within networks to compromise additional systems. The requirement for user interaction slightly reduces the risk of automated mass exploitation but does not eliminate the threat, especially in environments where users frequently connect to external or untrusted SQL Server instances or open files that trigger the vulnerability. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that successful exploitation could cause severe operational and reputational damage. Organizations with exposed SQL Server instances or those using the OLE DB Driver in client applications are particularly at risk.

1. Immediate mitigation should include restricting network access to SQL Server instances, especially from untrusted networks, using firewalls and network segmentation to limit exposure. 2. Disable or restrict the use of the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server in client applications where possible, or configure applications to avoid connecting to untrusted SQL Server endpoints. 3. Implement strict user training and awareness programs to reduce risky user interactions that could trigger exploitation, such as opening untrusted files or connecting to unknown database servers. 4. Monitor network and application logs for unusual activity related to SQL Server connections or unexpected use of OLE DB Driver components. 5. Apply principle of least privilege to SQL Server accounts and service accounts to minimize potential damage from exploitation. 6. Stay alert for official patches or updates from Microsoft and plan for rapid deployment once available. 7. Consider deploying intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with signatures for this vulnerability once they become available. 8. Conduct regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on SQL Server environments to identify exposure to this and related vulnerabilities.