CVE-2024-29047 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, which is used to facilitate database connectivity and data access. A heap-based buffer overflow occurs when the application writes more data to a buffer located on the heap than it can hold, potentially overwriting adjacent memory. This can lead to arbitrary code execution, memory corruption, or application crashes. In this case, the vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute code on the affected SQL Server instance without requiring any privileges (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as convincing a user to connect to a malicious SQL Server 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 attackers to fully compromise the database server. The scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the vulnerability affects only the vulnerable component and does not propagate beyond it. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and rated with a CVSS 3.1 score of 8.8, indicating a high risk. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure increases the urgency for mitigation. This vulnerability is critical for environments relying on Microsoft SQL Server 2019 for data storage and processing, especially where the OLE DB Driver is used for remote connections or linked server configurations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-29047 could be significant due to the widespread use of Microsoft SQL Server 2019 in enterprise environments, including finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and government sectors. Successful exploitation could lead to full compromise of SQL Server instances, resulting in unauthorized data access, data manipulation, or denial of service. This threatens the confidentiality of sensitive personal data protected under GDPR, potentially leading to regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Integrity of critical business data could be compromised, affecting operational continuity and decision-making. Availability impacts could disrupt business operations reliant on database availability. Given the remote network attack vector and lack of required privileges, attackers could exploit this vulnerability from outside the corporate network, increasing risk especially for organizations with exposed SQL Server endpoints or insufficient network segmentation. The requirement for user interaction somewhat limits automated exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as social engineering or phishing could be used to trigger the vulnerability. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high CVSS score and public disclosure necessitate immediate attention.

1. Apply the latest security updates from Microsoft as soon as they become available for SQL Server 2019 CU25 to remediate the vulnerability. 2. Until patches are released, restrict network access to SQL Server instances by implementing strict firewall rules, allowing only trusted hosts and networks to connect. 3. Disable or limit the use of the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server where possible, or replace it with alternative, less vulnerable data access methods. 4. Implement network segmentation to isolate database servers from general user networks and the internet, reducing exposure to remote attacks. 5. Monitor SQL Server logs and network traffic for unusual connection attempts or suspicious queries that could indicate exploitation attempts. 6. Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted data sources or links that could trigger the vulnerability. 7. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to memory corruption exploits. 8. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration tests focusing on SQL Server configurations and access controls to identify and remediate weaknesses proactively.