Microsoft Word Vulnerability

Systems Affected

• Microsoft Word 2003
• Microsoft Word XP (2002)

Microsoft Word is included in Microsoft Works Suite and Microsoft Office. Other versions of Word and other Office programs may also be affected.

Overview

A vulnerability in Microsoft Word could allow an attacker to gain control of your computer.

Solution

Do not open untrusted Word documents

At the time of writing, an update is not available. Do not open unfamiliar or unexpected Word or other Office documents, including those received as email attachments or hosted on a web site. Please see US-CERT Cyber Security Tip ST04-010 for more information.

Description

An attacker could exploit a vulnerability in Microsoft Word by convincing a user to open a specially crafted Word document. The Word document could be included as an email attachment or hosted on a web site. It may also be possible to exploit the vulnerability using Word documents embedded in other Office documents.

For more technical information, see US-CERT Technical Alert TA06-139A.

References

• US-CERT Technical Alert TA06-139A - <http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/techalerts/TA06-139A.html>
• Vulnerability Note VU#446012 - <http://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/446012>
• Cyber Security Tip ST04-010 - <http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/tips/ST04-010.html>
• Microsoft Security Essentials - <http://www.microsoft.com/protect/>

Feedback can be directed to US-CERT.

Produced 2006 by US-CERT, a government organization. Terms of use

Revision History

May 19, 2006: Initial release
September 15, 2006: Fixed typo in feedback link