A Warning from Microsoft: Unpatched Office Vulnerability Leading to Data Exposure

Chrome Zero-Day CVE-2024-4761: Illuminating Cybersecurity with Britec

Article Description:

  • Learn about the unpatched Microsoft Office vulnerability CVE-2024-38200 that could expose your business data.
  • Discover how Britec, with over 30 years of experience, can help you stay protected.

Understanding the Threat: What is the Unpatched Office Vulnerability?
Microsoft recently disclosed a critical unpatched zero-day vulnerability in Office that could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information to malicious actors. This vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2024-38200, affects various versions of Office, including:

  • Microsoft Office 2016 (32-bit and 64-bit editions)
  • Microsoft Office LTSC 2021 (32-bit and 64-bit editions)
  • Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise (32-bit and 64-bit Systems)
  • Microsoft Office 2019 (32-bit and 64-bit editions)

If exploited, this vulnerability could allow attackers to access your business’s sensitive data, putting your reputation and customer trust at risk.

The Risks to Your Business: Why You Should Care
As a business owner, it’s crucial to take this vulnerability seriously due to its potential consequences:

  • Data exposure, if your business uses any of the affected Office versions.
  • Financial losses, damage to your reputation, and loss of customer trust.
  • Increased risk of cyberattacks, highlighting the need for proactive protection.

Protecting Your Business: What You Can Do
To safeguard your business from this vulnerability, Microsoft has recommended three mitigation strategies:

  • Configure the “Network Security: Restrict NTLM: Outgoing NTLM traffic to remote servers” policy setting.
  • Add users to the Protected Users Security Group.
  • Block TCP 445/SMB outbound from the network by using:
    • A perimeter firewall
    • A local firewall
    • VPN settings

However, these mitigation strategies might not offer complete protection. That’s where Britec can assist.

Britec: Your Partner in Cybersecurity

With over 30 years of experience, Britec is your reliable partner in cybersecurity, helping you navigate the complexities of protecting your business. Our experts stay up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates to ensure your safety. Don’t wait—contact Britec today to safeguard your business from the unpatched Office vulnerability and other potential threats. We provide the expertise, peace of mind and help you need to secure your future. Reach out now to schedule a consultation or chat.