CVE-2025-62216 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 affecting Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise version 16.0.1. This vulnerability arises when the application improperly manages memory, freeing an object while it is still in use, which can lead to execution of arbitrary code. An attacker with local access and the ability to interact with the user interface can exploit this flaw to execute code with the privileges of the current user. The vulnerability does not require prior authentication or elevated privileges, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS 3.1 score of 7.8 indicates a high severity, with attack vector local, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and user interaction needed. The impact covers confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as arbitrary code execution can lead to data theft, system compromise, or denial of service. Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild, and no patches have been released, which means organizations must rely on mitigation strategies until an official fix is available. The vulnerability was reserved in early October 2025 and published in November 2025, indicating recent discovery. Given Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise's widespread use in corporate environments, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to enterprise users, especially in regions with high adoption of Microsoft products.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a significant risk due to the widespread use of Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise in business environments. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized code execution, potentially allowing attackers to steal sensitive data, manipulate documents, or disrupt business operations. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where endpoint security is weak or users may be tricked into opening malicious files or links. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability can be severe, potentially leading to data breaches, loss of trust, regulatory penalties under GDPR, and operational downtime. Organizations in sectors such as finance, government, and critical infrastructure are particularly vulnerable due to the sensitivity of their data and the critical nature of their operations. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive defense, but the lack of patches necessitates immediate mitigation efforts to reduce exposure.

1. Restrict local access to systems running Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise to trusted users only, minimizing the risk of unauthorized local exploitation. 2. Implement strict endpoint security controls, including application whitelisting and behavior monitoring, to detect and prevent suspicious activities indicative of exploitation attempts. 3. Educate users on the risks of interacting with untrusted documents or links, emphasizing the need for caution to prevent triggering the vulnerability. 4. Employ network segmentation to limit lateral movement if a system is compromised. 5. Monitor system logs and security alerts for unusual behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts. 6. Maintain up-to-date backups to ensure recovery in case of compromise. 7. Stay informed on Microsoft’s security advisories and apply patches immediately once available. 8. Consider deploying application sandboxing or virtualization technologies to isolate Microsoft 365 Apps processes. 9. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to enhance visibility and rapid response capabilities. 10. Review and tighten user privilege assignments to limit the potential impact of code execution under user context.