CVE-2023-29372 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 06/14/2023
Microsoft WDAC OLE DB provider for SQL Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/08/2025
Microsoft WDAC OLE DB provider for SQL Server contains a remote code execution vulnerability that arises from improper input validation within the data access component. This vulnerability specifically affects the Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC) implementation that governs OLE DB provider behavior in SQL Server environments. The flaw exists in how the provider processes certain database connection parameters and query structures, creating opportunities for malicious actors to inject arbitrary code through specially crafted database interactions. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, indicating that the issue stems from inadequate bounds checking during data processing operations. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious database connection strings or query parameters that trigger buffer overflow conditions within the OLE DB provider memory structures, potentially leading to full system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to establish a legitimate database connection to a SQL Server instance that utilizes the affected WDAC OLE DB provider. The attack vector typically involves sending malformed input through database connection parameters or query execution commands that cause memory corruption. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the database provider level, allowing attackers to bypass traditional application security controls and potentially execute code with the privileges of the database service account. The attack chain follows standard remote code execution patterns where initial access is gained through database connectivity, followed by privilege escalation and lateral movement within the network infrastructure. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1190 for exploit for execution through network services.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate code execution capabilities to encompass broader system compromise and data integrity threats. Organizations utilizing SQL Server with WDAC enforcement mechanisms face potential unauthorized access to sensitive database information, including customer data, financial records, and proprietary business information. The vulnerability can enable attackers to establish persistent backdoors within database environments, making detection and remediation more challenging. Additionally, the exploitation can lead to denial of service conditions, database corruption, and unauthorized data exfiltration. Security teams must consider the cascading effects of this vulnerability across their database infrastructure, as compromised database servers can serve as entry points for broader network infiltration. The impact is particularly severe in regulated environments where database security is critical for compliance with standards such as pci dss, hipaa, and gdpr.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-29372 should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security patches and updates to the affected WDAC OLE DB provider components. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit database connectivity to authorized systems and users only. Database administrators should enable and configure proper audit logging to detect anomalous connection patterns and query executions that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additional protective measures include implementing application whitelisting policies, disabling unnecessary database features, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments of database environments. The implementation of principle of least privilege access controls for database accounts and regular security monitoring of database connection logs can significantly reduce the risk of successful exploitation. Organizations should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious database traffic patterns and alert security teams to potential exploitation attempts. Regular security awareness training for database administrators and development teams regarding secure coding practices and vulnerability management procedures is essential for maintaining robust database security postures.