CVE-2024-49142 is a high-severity use-after-free vulnerability (CWE-416) affecting Microsoft Office 2019, specifically within Microsoft Access. This vulnerability allows remote code execution (RCE) when a user opens a specially crafted Access file. The flaw arises because the application improperly manages memory, freeing an object and then continuing to use it, which can lead to arbitrary code execution. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high impact with the vector AV:L (local attack vector), AC:L (low attack complexity), PR:N (no privileges required), UI:R (user interaction required), and full impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Exploitation requires the victim to open a malicious file, but no prior authentication or elevated privileges are needed. Although no known exploits are currently in the wild, the vulnerability’s characteristics make it a significant risk, especially in environments where Microsoft Office 2019 is widely used. The absence of published patches at this time increases the urgency for mitigation and monitoring. The vulnerability was reserved in October 2024 and published in December 2024, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk due to the widespread use of Microsoft Office 2019 in corporate, governmental, and educational sectors. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data theft, disruption of business operations, and potential lateral movement within networks. Confidentiality breaches could expose sensitive personal data protected under GDPR, leading to regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Integrity and availability impacts could disrupt critical workflows, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and public administration. The requirement for user interaction (opening a malicious file) means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be effective attack vectors. Given the high impact on all security dimensions and the lack of current patches, organizations face a window of exposure that could be exploited by threat actors targeting European entities.

1. Implement strict email filtering and attachment scanning to block or quarantine suspicious Access database files (.accdb, .mdb) and other Office documents. 2. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected Office files, emphasizing verification of sender identity. 3. Employ application control or whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized Office macros or Access files. 4. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 5. Isolate or sandbox untrusted Office documents to prevent direct execution on critical systems. 6. Regularly review and apply Microsoft security updates as soon as patches become available for this vulnerability. 7. Consider upgrading to supported Office versions with active security support if feasible. 8. Monitor threat intelligence feeds and vulnerability advisories for any emerging exploit code or attack campaigns related to CVE-2024-49142.