CVE-2014-0247

What it actually does

The vulnerability permits automatic execution of unspecified VBA macros upon document opening without user consent or input validation checks, potentially granting full system control.

Why it matters to the business

Enables remote attackers to compromise systems handling documents, risking data theft or malware deployment; given the age and low EPSS, active risk is limited but legacy deployments remain exposed.

How an attack unfolds

An attacker embeds VBA macros in a crafted document and delivers it to a target; upon opening in the vulnerable version, macros execute automatically due to missing validation, achieving code execution.

How to fix it

Upgrade LibreOffice to a version later than 4.2.4 on all affected platforms including Fedora, RHEL, Ubuntu, and openSUSE; disable macro support where feasible and apply vendor patches as available.

How to confirm the fix worked

Verify installed LibreOffice version exceeds 4.2.4; attempt to open test documents containing VBA macros and confirm execution is blocked or prompted; review application logs for macro handling behavior.

Typical attack path

1. Create document containing malicious VBA macros
2. Distribute document via email, web download, or shared storage
3. Victim opens file in affected LibreOffice version
4. Macros execute without prompt or validation, running attacker code

How to detect it

Review system and application logs for unexpected process launches immediately following document opens; search for references to macro execution paths or VBA handling in LibreOffice activity; correlate with file access events involving .doc or .odt files.

What your security team should do

• Prioritize updating LibreOffice across all endpoints to eliminate the macro execution flaw
• Implement document handling policies that restrict macro-enabled files from untrusted sources
• Monitor EPSS and threat feeds for any resurgence despite low current score
• Audit legacy systems for continued use of the vulnerable version