CVE-2022-47211 in Office
Summary
by MITRE • 12/13/2022
Microsoft Office Graphics Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2022-26804, CVE-2022-26805, CVE-2022-26806, CVE-2022-44692, CVE-2022-47212, CVE-2022-47213.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/22/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw in Microsoft Office Graphics component that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability specifically impacts the way Microsoft Office handles graphics files and embedded objects within document formats such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Security researchers have identified that when a user opens a specially crafted malicious file, the Office Graphics engine fails to properly validate input data, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged for remote code execution. The flaw exists in the parsing logic of graphic rendering components and affects multiple Microsoft Office applications that utilize the Graphics Rendering Engine for processing document elements.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the Office Graphics subsystem where untrusted data is processed without adequate sanitization measures. Attackers can craft malicious files containing specially formatted graphics elements that trigger buffer overflows or memory corruption conditions when the Office application attempts to render these elements. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-125, which covers out-of-bounds read errors. The exploitation process typically involves delivering a malicious document through phishing campaigns or compromised websites, where the victim's Office application automatically attempts to render embedded graphics, triggering the vulnerable code path. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no user interaction beyond opening the document, making it a prime candidate for zero-day exploitation campaigns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Once successfully exploited, attackers can establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, and access sensitive data stored on compromised systems. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Microsoft Office versions across different operating systems, including Windows 10, Windows 11, and various server editions. Organizations with extensive Office usage patterns face significant risk exposure, particularly in environments where users frequently open documents from untrusted sources or where email security controls are insufficient. This vulnerability can be weaponized through various attack vectors including email attachments, malicious websites, and compromised cloud storage services, making it a versatile tool for threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security patches and updates, which address the core validation flaws in the graphics rendering engine. Organizations should implement strict email filtering controls and disable automatic graphics rendering in Office applications where possible. Network segmentation and endpoint detection and response solutions can help identify exploitation attempts before they succeed. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized Office components and monitor for suspicious file access patterns. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1203, which covers exploitation for privilege escalation, and T1059, covering command and scripting interpreters. Regular security assessments and user awareness training are essential components of a comprehensive defense strategy, as social engineering remains a primary delivery mechanism for this type of vulnerability.