Microsoft warns of targeted Word attacks

Microsoft has warned of a potential vulnerability in Word that has reportedly been the subject of targeted attacks.

According to Microsoft Security Advisory 953635, the software company is investigating reports of a vulnerability in Microsoft Office Word 2002 Service Pack 3.

"Microsoft is investigating the public reports and customer impact," stated the security advisory. "Upon completion of this investigation, Microsoft will take the appropriate action to help protect our customers. This may include providing a security update through our monthly release process or providing an out-of-cycle security update, depending on customer needs."

Workarounds that the company recommends include using Microsoft Office Word 2003 Viewer or Microsoft Office Word 2003 Viewer Service Pack 3 to open and view Microsoft Word files.

Microsoft encouraged customers who believe they may have been attacked to contact the "national law-enforcement agency in their country".
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