CVE-2025-53761 is a use-after-free vulnerability identified in Microsoft Office 2019 PowerPoint (version 19.0.0). This vulnerability arises when the application improperly manages memory, freeing an object but continuing to use the pointer referencing that memory. An attacker can exploit this flaw by crafting a malicious PowerPoint file that, when opened by a user, triggers the use-after-free condition. This can lead to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the current user. The vulnerability does not require prior authentication or elevated privileges but does require user interaction, such as opening a malicious file. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating high severity, with attack vector local, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and user interaction needed. The impact covers confidentiality, integrity, and availability, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code, steal data, or disrupt system operations. As of the publication date, no patches or known exploits in the wild have been reported, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be considered a significant risk. The CWE-416 classification highlights the use-after-free memory corruption nature of the flaw, a common and dangerous class of vulnerabilities in software.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Microsoft Office 2019 in corporate, government, and educational environments. Successful exploitation could lead to local code execution, enabling attackers to install malware, exfiltrate sensitive information, or disrupt critical business processes. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious PowerPoint files. Confidentiality breaches could expose personal data protected under GDPR, leading to regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Integrity and availability impacts could disrupt business continuity, especially in sectors reliant on Office productivity tools. The absence of a patch increases the window of exposure, necessitating proactive defensive measures. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces may face increased risk due to file sharing and email usage patterns. Overall, the vulnerability could facilitate targeted attacks against high-value European entities, including financial institutions, government agencies, and critical infrastructure operators.

1. Implement strict email filtering and attachment scanning to block or quarantine suspicious PowerPoint files before reaching end users. 2. Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected PowerPoint presentations, emphasizing caution with email attachments and links. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions that can detect or block exploitation attempts targeting Office applications. 4. Restrict macro execution and disable unnecessary Office add-ins that could be leveraged in exploitation chains. 5. Monitor endpoint and network logs for anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unusual PowerPoint process activity or memory anomalies. 6. Prepare for rapid deployment of official patches once Microsoft releases them, including testing and validation in controlled environments. 7. Consider isolating or sandboxing Office applications in high-risk environments to limit potential damage from exploitation. 8. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to recover quickly if exploitation occurs. 9. Coordinate with cybersecurity information sharing groups to stay informed about emerging threats related to this vulnerability.