CVE-2026-97742

Summary

A stack-based buffer overflow in Microsoft Excel allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code when processing malicious files, potentially leading to full system compromise.

Exploitability

Exploitation requires a user to open a specially crafted Excel file, making it moderately difficult but achievable through social engineering or phishing campaigns.

Blast radius

If exploited, this vulnerability could allow attackers to gain full control over affected systems, potentially leading to data breaches, lateral movement, and persistent access within enterprise networks.

Detection

No reliable host or network indicator is derivable from the published description.

Prioritized remediation

Deploy the Microsoft Office 2021 Security Update KB5043798 or Office 2024 Security Update KB5043799 immediately to all affected systems.

Analysis generated locally by garnet-coder (no data left the box). AI-assisted — verify against primary sources before acting.