CVE-2026-47290 in Office
Summary
by MITRE • 07/14/2026
Use after free in Microsoft Office allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code locally.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical use-after-free condition in Microsoft Office applications that enables remote code execution through local privilege escalation. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly validate memory references after objects have been freed, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory contents and execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. Such vulnerabilities typically arise from improper memory management practices where developers do not adequately track object lifecycles or fail to implement proper reference counting mechanisms. The vulnerability manifests when Office applications process maliciously crafted files that trigger the use-after-free condition during normal document operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves crafting specific file formats that, when opened by vulnerable Office applications, cause memory deallocation followed by subsequent access to freed memory locations. Attackers can leverage this condition to overwrite critical memory structures or inject malicious code into the application's address space through controlled data manipulation. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-416 which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions in software applications. The attack vector typically requires social engineering to convince users to open malicious documents, though in some cases direct exploitation may be possible through specific file handling scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution as it provides attackers with persistent access to target systems and potential lateral movement capabilities within network environments. Once successfully exploited, the attacker gains the ability to install additional malware, modify system configurations, steal sensitive data, or establish backdoor access for continued unauthorized presence. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where Office applications are widely deployed and users frequently open documents from external sources, creating numerous attack surfaces for malicious actors. The threat landscape surrounding such vulnerabilities is well-documented in the mitre ATT&CK framework under techniques related to privilege escalation and execution through legitimate user processes.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch management implementation alongside comprehensive security controls including email filtering mechanisms, application whitelisting policies, and user education programs to reduce social engineering success rates. Microsoft typically releases security updates addressing such vulnerabilities through regular monthly patches, though organizations should maintain robust vulnerability management processes to ensure timely deployment of security fixes. Additional protective measures include implementing least privilege access controls, monitoring for anomalous process behavior, and deploying endpoint detection and response solutions that can identify exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and firewall rules can also limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by restricting lateral movement capabilities within compromised environments.