CVE-2025-62555 is a use-after-free vulnerability (CWE-416) identified in Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016, linked to the Microsoft Office Word component. This 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 with local access and the ability to interact with the system (e.g., opening a malicious Word document) can exploit this flaw to execute code with the privileges of the current user. The CVSS 3.1 vector indicates the attack requires local access (AV:L), has high attack complexity (AC:H), requires no privileges (PR:N), but does require user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no public exploits are known at this time, the vulnerability's characteristics suggest that exploitation could lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects version 16.0.0 of SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016, a widely used enterprise collaboration platform. The issue was reserved in October 2025 and published in December 2025, with no patches currently linked, indicating that organizations should be vigilant for forthcoming updates. The vulnerability's exploitation could disrupt document workflows, leak sensitive information, or allow attackers to implant persistent malware within enterprise environments.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-62555 could be significant due to the widespread use of Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016 in enterprise environments for document management and collaboration. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, resulting in data breaches, loss of data integrity, and potential service outages. This could disrupt business operations, especially in sectors reliant on SharePoint for critical workflows such as finance, healthcare, and government. The local attack vector and requirement for user interaction limit remote exploitation but do not eliminate risk, particularly in environments where users may open untrusted documents or where insider threats exist. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that sensitive corporate data could be exposed or manipulated, and system availability could be compromised, affecting business continuity. Additionally, the lack of current patches increases the window of vulnerability, necessitating proactive risk management.

1. Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely and apply patches immediately once released to remediate CVE-2025-62555. 2. Restrict local access to SharePoint servers to trusted administrators only, minimizing the attack surface. 3. Implement strict user privilege management to ensure users operate with the least privileges necessary, reducing the impact of local code execution. 4. Educate users about the risks of opening untrusted Word documents, especially on systems hosting SharePoint services. 5. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to memory corruption exploits. 6. Use network segmentation to isolate SharePoint servers from less trusted network zones. 7. Regularly audit and monitor logs for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts. 8. Consider deploying enhanced memory protection technologies such as Control Flow Guard (CFG) and Data Execution Prevention (DEP) where supported. 9. Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing local privilege escalation and code execution scenarios on SharePoint servers.