Executive brief
Microsoft SQL Server contains an insufficient access control vulnerability that allows an authorized attacker to escalate privileges over a network. This could enable a low-privilege database user to gain higher-level permissions, potentially compromising sensitive data stored in the database or disrupting critical business operations that depend on SQL Server.
Technical details
The vulnerability stems from insufficient granularity in SQL Server's access control mechanisms, allowing authenticated users to bypass intended privilege restrictions. An attacker with valid credentials and network access to the SQL Server instance can exploit this flaw to elevate their privileges without additional authentication. The attack requires an authorized account and network connectivity to the affected SQL Server instance. Successful exploitation results in privilege escalation, potentially granting attackers administrative or elevated database permissions. Microsoft has released a patch for this vulnerability.
Affected products
- Microsoft SQL Server
Timeline
- 2026-09-08: disclosed