CVE-2025-62199 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 affecting Microsoft Office 2016, specifically version 16.0.0. The vulnerability arises when the software improperly manages memory, freeing an object while it is still in use, which can lead to arbitrary code execution. An attacker can exploit this flaw by convincing a user to open a specially crafted Office document, triggering the use-after-free condition. This results in the attacker gaining the ability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects a high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but requiring user interaction (UI:R). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, as successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise. No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability is officially published and reserved as of October 2025. The lack of known exploits does not diminish the threat, as attackers often develop exploits rapidly after disclosure. The vulnerability affects a widely used productivity suite, making it a significant concern for enterprise environments. The absence of patch links indicates that remediation may not yet be available, emphasizing the need for interim mitigations and monitoring.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a substantial risk due to the widespread use of Microsoft Office 2016 in business, government, and critical infrastructure sectors. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, enabling attackers to steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or move laterally within networks. 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 like finance, healthcare, and public administration. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be leveraged to trigger the exploit. Given the high impact on all security triad components and the prevalence of the affected software, the threat is significant across Europe. Organizations with legacy systems or delayed patching cycles are particularly vulnerable. The lack of current known exploits provides a window for proactive defense, but also a risk if attackers develop exploits rapidly post-disclosure.

1. Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely and apply patches immediately once released for Office 2016 version 16.0.0. 2. Until patches are available, disable or restrict macros and embedded content in Office documents via Group Policy or Office configuration settings. 3. Implement strict email filtering and attachment handling policies to block or quarantine suspicious Office documents, especially from unknown or untrusted sources. 4. Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected Office files and train them to recognize phishing attempts. 5. Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions with behavior-based detection to identify anomalous Office process activities indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Use application whitelisting to limit execution of unauthorized binaries that could be dropped or launched by exploited Office processes. 7. Employ network segmentation to contain potential lateral movement if exploitation occurs. 8. Regularly audit and update legacy systems to reduce exposure to unsupported or outdated software versions. 9. Leverage Microsoft Defender for Office 365 and other advanced threat protection tools to detect and block malicious documents. 10. Maintain comprehensive backups and incident response plans to recover quickly from potential compromises.