CVE-2023-21735: Microsoft Office Remote Code Execution Vulnerability Overview

Overview of CVE-2023-21735

CVE-2023-21735 is a serious vulnerability identified in Microsoft Office products that allows remote code execution. This flaw, classified as 'Use After Free' (CWE-416), affects various Office applications including Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac, Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise, and Microsoft Office LTSC for Mac 2021.

The vulnerability was published on January 10, 2023, by Microsoft and is marked with a high severity score of 7.8 according to the CVSS v3.1 metrics. It exposes users to potential attacks where adversaries could execute arbitrary code, steal data, or gain unauthorized access to the affected system.

Affected Products

The following products are confirmed to be affected by CVE-2023-21735:

• Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac: Versions less than 16.69.23010700.
• Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise: Specific versions, with updates accessible via this link.
• Microsoft Office LTSC for Mac 2021: Versions less than 16.69.23010700.

Impact of the Vulnerability

The primary impact of CVE-2023-21735 is the ability of a malicious actor to execute arbitrary code on a vulnerable system. This means that once exploited, the attacker could take control over the user’s machine, facilitating data theft, spying, or even deploying malware.

Mitigation Strategies

Mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2023-21735 requires immediate action to protect vulnerable systems:

• Update Software: Ensure that all affected Microsoft Office products are updated to the latest versions available. Microsoft has released patches and updates to address this vulnerability, making it critical to apply them without delay.
• Monitor System Activity: Keep an eye on unusual activities within your network and systems. Proper monitoring can help in identifying any unauthorized access or potential exploit attempts.
• Educate Users: Train employees to be aware of phishing attacks and suspicious links in emails or documents. Many vulnerabilities are exploited through social engineering tactics.
• Implement Security Tools: Utilize advanced endpoint security solutions to detect and block potential threats that may try to exploit the vulnerability.
• Back-Up Data: Regularly back up data to secure locations to ensure that any losses due to a successful attack can be restored easily.

Conclusion

CVE-2023-21735 poses a significant risk to organizations using affected Microsoft Office products. It is vital to implement the recommended mitigation strategies promptly to safeguard your systems against potential threats. For further information and detailed updates, refer to the official Microsoft advisory.