CVE-2025-62557 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416, affecting Microsoft Office LTSC 2024 version 16.0.0. This vulnerability occurs when the software improperly manages memory, freeing an object while it is still accessible, which can lead to execution of arbitrary code by an attacker. The vulnerability allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code locally without requiring privileges or user interaction, as indicated by the CVSS vector (AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, meaning an attacker could fully compromise the affected system. The vulnerability was reserved in mid-October 2025 and published in early December 2025, with no patches currently available at the time of this report. No known exploits have been observed in the wild, but the high CVSS score of 8.4 reflects the critical nature of the flaw. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because Microsoft Office is widely used in enterprise environments, and local code execution can lead to lateral movement or privilege escalation if combined with other vulnerabilities or misconfigurations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-62557 could be significant. Microsoft Office LTSC 2024 is commonly deployed in corporate, governmental, and educational institutions across Europe. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code locally, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, or disruption of critical business processes. This is especially critical for sectors handling sensitive information such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies. The vulnerability’s ability to be exploited without user interaction or privileges increases the risk of automated or insider attacks. Additionally, compromised systems could serve as footholds for further attacks within networks, amplifying the threat. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure means organizations must rely on interim mitigations, increasing exposure duration.

1. Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely and apply official patches immediately once released to remediate the vulnerability. 2. Restrict local access to systems running Microsoft Office LTSC 2024 to trusted users only, minimizing the attack surface. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behaviors related to memory corruption exploits. 4. Use least privilege principles to limit user permissions, reducing the potential impact of local code execution. 5. Conduct regular memory integrity checks and system audits to detect signs of exploitation. 6. Educate IT staff and users about the risks of local exploitation and encourage reporting of suspicious activity. 7. Consider isolating critical systems or using virtualization/containerization to limit the blast radius of potential attacks. 8. Implement network segmentation to prevent lateral movement if a system is compromised.