CVE-2024-28943 in ODBC Driver
Summary
by MITRE • 04/09/2024
Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2025
This vulnerability exists in the Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server component which allows remote code execution when a maliciously crafted connection string is processed by the affected driver. The flaw stems from improper input validation and handling of connection parameters that can lead to buffer overflows or arbitrary code execution on systems running vulnerable versions of the driver. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting specially formatted connection strings that trigger memory corruption issues during parsing operations.
The technical implementation involves the driver's failure to properly validate user-supplied connection string parameters before processing them in memory. When a malicious connection string is presented, the driver's parsing logic does not adequately check bounds or sanitize inputs leading to potential stack or heap corruption. This vulnerability specifically affects versions of Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server prior to 13.1.4001.0 and 17.2.1.0 where proper input validation mechanisms were either absent or insufficiently implemented.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risk to database environments as it can be exploited remotely without authentication requirements. The attack surface includes any system that utilizes the affected ODBC driver for SQL Server connections, particularly web applications, enterprise databases, and cloud services that rely on SQL Server connectivity. Organizations with exposed database servers or applications that dynamically construct connection strings from user input are especially vulnerable since attackers can manipulate these parameters to trigger the exploit.
The impact extends beyond immediate code execution capabilities as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data theft, lateral movement within networks, and persistent backdoor access. Security frameworks such as CWE-121 and CWE-125 categorize this vulnerability type under buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows memory corruption. The attack patterns align with MITRE ATT&CK techniques including T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter execution.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of affected Microsoft ODBC Driver versions to the latest releases containing proper input validation fixes. Network segmentation and firewall rules should restrict unnecessary access to database servers from untrusted networks. Implementing strict input validation at application level when constructing connection strings can provide additional defense in depth. Organizations should also monitor for suspicious connection string patterns and implement logging mechanisms to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments of database connectivity components and comprehensive vulnerability scanning are essential for maintaining protection against similar vulnerabilities in related software components.