CVE-2024-28941 is a high-severity heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Microsoft SQL Server 2019 (GDR), specifically affecting version 15.0.0. The vulnerability resides in the Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server, which is used to facilitate communication between applications and the SQL Server database engine. A heap-based buffer overflow occurs when data exceeds the allocated buffer size in heap memory, potentially allowing an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory and execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability enables remote code execution (RCE) without requiring authentication (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as convincing a user to connect to a malicious SQL Server instance or execute a crafted query. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), meaning exploitation can occur remotely over the network without physical access. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated high), allowing an attacker to fully compromise the affected SQL Server instance, potentially leading to data theft, data manipulation, or denial of service. The scope is unchanged (S:U), indicating the vulnerability affects only the vulnerable component without extending to other system components. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the high CVSS score of 8.8 underscores the critical nature of this flaw. Given the widespread use of Microsoft SQL Server 2019 in enterprise environments, this vulnerability poses a significant risk if left unpatched. The absence of published patches at the time of this report necessitates immediate attention to monitoring vendor updates and applying mitigations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-28941 could be severe due to the extensive deployment of Microsoft SQL Server 2019 in sectors such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and government. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, enabling attackers to gain full control over database servers, exfiltrate sensitive data, alter critical records, or disrupt business operations through denial of service. This could result in regulatory non-compliance, especially under GDPR, financial losses, reputational damage, and operational downtime. The requirement for user interaction slightly reduces the risk of automated mass exploitation but does not eliminate targeted attacks, particularly spear-phishing or social engineering campaigns aimed at privileged users or administrators. The vulnerability’s network accessibility means attackers can attempt exploitation from outside the corporate network, increasing exposure. Given the critical role of SQL Server in managing enterprise data, exploitation could cascade into broader IT infrastructure compromise.

1. Immediate monitoring of Microsoft’s official security advisories and prompt application of any released patches or updates for SQL Server 2019 (GDR) is essential. 2. Until patches are available, restrict network access to SQL Server instances by implementing strict firewall rules limiting inbound connections to trusted IP addresses and VPNs. 3. Employ network segmentation to isolate database servers from general user networks and internet-facing systems. 4. Enforce the principle of least privilege for database users and service accounts to minimize potential impact if exploited. 5. Educate users and administrators about the risks of interacting with untrusted SQL Server instances or executing unknown queries, reducing the likelihood of successful social engineering. 6. Enable and closely monitor detailed logging and anomaly detection on SQL Server and network devices to identify suspicious connection attempts or unusual query patterns. 7. Consider deploying Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) or Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) with updated signatures capable of detecting exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. 8. Regularly back up critical databases and verify backup integrity to ensure rapid recovery in case of compromise.