CVE-2024-28929 - How Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server Could Let Attackers Run Code Remotely

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Microsoft products are so widespread that when a vulnerability is discovered, it can have massive impacts. One such recent flaw is CVE-2024-28929, a critical remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability in the Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server. If you rely on SQL Server for your apps or infrastructure, understanding this bug could save you from a major breach.

Below, I’ll break down what this CVE means, how attackers can use it, some code snippets to show the danger, and what you can do to protect yourself. Everything here is explained in simple terms, so even if you’re new to these issues, you’ll get the picture.

What is CVE-2024-28929?

CVE-2024-28929 is a vulnerability in certain versions of the Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server. The ODBC (Open Database Connectivity) Driver is a way for apps to talk to SQL Server databases. Many Windows and cross-platform apps use this driver behind the scenes.

The flaw exists due to improper handling of specially crafted network packets. This allows attackers to send malicious requests that end up running arbitrary code on the target system — all without needing valid credentials!

In a nutshell:
*If you are running an outdated ODBC Driver, an attacker on your network — or even over the internet — could take over your Windows system just by exploiting this bug.*

Original References

- Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC) Advisory
- NIST National Vulnerability Database Entry
- Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server Documentation
- Security Advisory by Rapid7

On all supported and some unsupported versions of Windows

Patched versions:

Attacker discovers a system using the ODBC driver.

2. Attacker crafts a malicious SQL request that abuses the bug — for example, by embedding shellcode or a payload in a connection string.
3. The ODBC driver parses and processes this input incorrectly due to the bug, leading to memory corruption.
4. Arbitrary code is executed on the Windows system with the privileges of the ODBC driver process (sometimes SYSTEM!).

Here’s a *very* basic Python PoC that simulates sending a malformed payload over the network (pyodbc is *not* vulnerable itself, but this shows what an attacker might do):

import pyodbc

# Malicious input designed to trigger the bug (actual payload would differ)
malicious_payload = "'; EXEC xp_cmdshell('calc.exe') --"

conn_str = (
    "DRIVER={ODBC Driver 18 for SQL Server};"
    "SERVER=target_host,1433;"
    "UID=attacker;PWD=fakepassword;"
    "DATABASE=master;"
)

try:
    conn = pyodbc.connect(conn_str, timeout=5)
    cursor = conn.cursor()
    cursor.execute(f"SELECT * FROM users WHERE name={malicious_payload}")
except Exception as e:
    print("Exploit attempt: ", e)

Note: The above does not exploit the bug — the true exploit would involve custom binary payloads and network-level fuzzing to trigger the exact memory corruption condition, but this gives you the flavor.

Exploit in the Wild

As of June 2024, there’s no public known active exploitation, but given the ease of reaching ODBC drivers via the network and the high impact (RCE), attackers are likely working on reliable attack code.

Update Immediately

Download and deploy the latest ODBC Driver for SQL Server.

Monitor for Suspicious Activity

Keep an eye on logs for unusual connection attempts or unexpected activity, especially from untrusted IPs.

Concluding Thoughts

CVE-2024-28929 is a textbook example of how a small bug in a widely-used driver can open the doors to a major security risk. The best defense is quick patching and limiting who can talk to your SQL Servers.

Stay safe out there!

*Exclusive post by ChatGPT. For re-use, credit the original source links above.*

Timeline

Published on: 04/09/2024 17:15:53 UTC
Last modified on: 04/10/2024 13:24:00 UTC