CVE-2026-72972: Microsoft Office Word Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
Heap-based buffer overflow in Microsoft Office Word allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code over a network.
Other sources
Microsoft Office Word Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
— Microsoft
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Fixed in 16.0.14334.20906 - Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Fixed in 16.0.17932.20976 - Upgrade
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Fixed in 16.0.10417.20207 - Upgrade
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Fixed in 16.0.20326.20138 - Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Fixed in 16.0.5569.1000Patch KB5002923
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What user action is required for exploitation?
The vulnerability has a user-interaction requirement. An attacker must cause a user to interact with malicious Word content; the provided data does not specify the delivery method or exact action required.
Which Office deployments are identified as affected?
The listed affected products are Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise, Word 2016, Office LTSC 2021 32-bit editions, Office LTSC 2024 32-bit and 64-bit editions, Office 2019 64-bit editions, Office 365 for Mac, and Office LTSC for Mac 2024.
Can exploitation lead to full compromise of the affected system?
The vulnerability is rated High with high impacts to confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Successful exploitation allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code over a network.