CVE-2024-51962 is a SQL injection vulnerability classified under CWE-89, discovered in Esri's ArcGIS Server product, which is widely used for geographic information system (GIS) services. The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands during an EDIT operation that modifies column properties. This flaw can be exploited by a remote authenticated user who possesses elevated, non-administrative privileges specific to the application, allowing them to inject malicious SQL code. The injection can lead to unauthorized access or modification of sensitive data stored in the backend database, severely impacting data confidentiality and integrity. The vulnerability affects all versions of ArcGIS Server, indicating a systemic issue in the product's input validation mechanisms. The CVSS 3.1 score of 8.7 reflects a high-severity rating, with an attack vector over the network, low attack complexity, and requiring high privileges but no user interaction. The scope is changed, meaning the vulnerability can affect components beyond the initially vulnerable module. Although no public exploits are known, the potential for damage is significant, especially in environments where ArcGIS Server manages critical spatial data. The lack of availability impact means systems remain operational, but data trustworthiness is compromised. This vulnerability necessitates immediate attention from administrators to prevent potential data breaches or unauthorized data manipulation.

For European organizations, especially those in government, urban planning, utilities, and critical infrastructure sectors that rely heavily on Esri ArcGIS Server, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure or alteration of sensitive geospatial data, which may include critical infrastructure layouts, environmental data, or strategic planning information. Such data breaches could undermine national security, disrupt public services, or lead to regulatory non-compliance under GDPR due to exposure of personal or sensitive data. The requirement for elevated privileges limits the attack surface but also implies insider threats or compromised high-privilege accounts could be leveraged. The integrity impact could result in corrupted datasets, leading to flawed decision-making or operational failures. Since availability is unaffected, detection may be more challenging, allowing attackers to persist undetected. The absence of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as weaponization could occur rapidly once details become widespread.

1. Immediately review and restrict elevated, non-administrative permissions within ArcGIS Server to the minimum necessary users, enforcing the principle of least privilege. 2. Monitor and audit all EDIT operations modifying column properties for unusual or unauthorized activity, leveraging ArcGIS Server logs and database monitoring tools. 3. Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of ArcGIS Server to trusted users and networks only. 4. Apply vendor patches or updates as soon as they are released by Esri; in the meantime, consider temporary workarounds such as disabling or restricting the vulnerable EDIT functionality if feasible. 5. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on SQL injection vectors within the GIS environment. 6. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block SQL injection attempts targeting ArcGIS Server interfaces. 7. Educate privileged users about the risks of misuse and enforce strong authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication, to reduce the risk of credential compromise. 8. Maintain up-to-date backups of critical geospatial data to enable recovery in case of data tampering.