Remote code execution in Microsoft Excel

1) Use-after-free

EUVDB-ID: #VU98241

Risk: High

CVSSv3.1: 7.9 [CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:P/RL:O/RC:C]

CVE-ID: CVE-2024-43504

CWE-ID: CWE-416 - Use After Free

Exploit availability: Yes

Description

The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to compromise vulnerable system.

The vulnerability exists due to a use-after-free error in Microsoft Excel. A remote attacker can trick a victim to open a specially crafted file and execute arbitrary code on the target system.

Mitigation

Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Microsoft Office: 2019

Microsoft Excel: 2016

Microsoft Office LTSC: 2021 - 2024

Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise: 32-bit Systems - 64-bit Systems

CPE2.3

• cpe:2.3:a:microsoft:microsoft_office:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:
• cpe:2.3:a:microsoft:microsoft_excel:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:
• cpe:2.3:a:microsoft:microsoft_office_ltsc:2021:*:*:*:*:*:*:
• cpe:2.3:a:microsoft:microsoft_office_ltsc:2024:*:*:*:*:*:*:
• cpe:2.3:a:microsoft:microsoft_365_apps_for_enterprise:32-bit Systems:*:*:*:*:*:*:
• cpe:2.3:a:microsoft:microsoft_365_apps_for_enterprise:64-bit Systems:*:*:*:*:*:*:

External links

http://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2024-43504

Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

Yes. This vulnerability can be exploited by a remote non-authenticated attacker via the Internet.

How the attacker can exploit this vulnerability?

The attacker would have to trick the victim to visit a specially crafted website or open a file.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability. However, proof of concept for this vulnerability is available.