Executive brief
Microsoft Office Excel is a widely-used spreadsheet application found in most enterprise environments. A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a user's computer if they open a malicious Excel file, potentially compromising sensitive financial data, business plans, or other confidential information stored in spreadsheets.
Technical details
A heap-based buffer overflow exists in Microsoft Office Excel that permits an attacker to execute code with the privileges of the user running Excel. The vulnerability is triggered by processing specially crafted Excel files, requiring the victim to open the malicious file. No authentication is required to exploit this issue; however, user interaction (opening a file) is necessary. Once triggered, the overflow allows arbitrary code execution in the context of the affected process, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
Affected products
- Microsoft Office Excel
Timeline
- 2026-08-11: disclosed