What's the issue?
The SQL Server Service is using a service account with elevated permissions.
Why is this a problem?
If an attacker compromises the SQL Server instance, they can gain full control over SQL Server, including execution of OS-level commands.
What should you do about this?
We recommend using a group managed service account (gMSA) with minimal permissions as a service account for SQL Server services. We also recommend reducing permissions of the account be kept to only the permissions required as noted in Microsoft documentation.
Vulnerability
Category
What do the Vulnerability Levels mean?
0 - Information only. This is stuff you should know about your instances like version and service account used, but if you don't know it…well, now you do.
1 - High vulnerability requiring action. These are the issues that could most likely lead to your company being front page news for all the wrong reasons. If your instances have any results at this level then we recommend cancelling that 3-martini lunch and instead huddling with your team to figure out when to address these issues.
2 - High vulnerability to review. These include settings and assigned permissions you should review soon, if not immediately. These findings may not necessarily indicate a clear vulnerability, but we've found unexpected vulnerabilities in these categories at many, many clients.
3 - Potential vulnerability to review. These are configurations or assigned permissions you may be using that could lead to problems for users. Or maybe they're just required for your applications. Either way, we recommend reviewing these to make sure these are correct.
4 – Low vulnerability with recommended action. These are typically security inconsistencies that should be addressed. They aren't likely to cause problems, but you should clean up the mess.