Remember when macro-based malware was everywhere? Word docs with “Enable Content” buttons that turned out to be Trojan horses for ransomware, keyloggers, and all sorts of nasty surprises?
For a while, Microsoft managed to shut that party down. Starting in 2022, macros in files downloaded from the internet were blocked by default. No more instant infections from a single careless click. Things got quieter.
But now? With legacy versions of Office reaching the end of their support lifecycles, we’re seeing an unexpected side effect: macros are creeping back into the threat landscape.
When Old Software Sticks Around, So Do Old Problems
Let’s be honest — not every organization jumps on new versions of Office the moment they launch. Some are still using Office 2013 or earlier, either out of habit, cost savings, or because some critical internal system just won’t work with newer builds.
That’s where the danger lies. These older versions don’t have Microsoft’s newer macro-blocking features. No Smart App Controls. No default sandboxing. Just the old-school “trust or don’t trust” model — and attackers know exactly how to exploit that.
Phishing campaigns are catching on. Files disguised as invoices, reports, or meeting notes are back in circulation, weaponized with VBA macros that run the moment a user clicks that innocent-looking “Enable” prompt.
Why Are Macros Still a Thing?
Because they work. Simple as that.
They’re flexible, deeply embedded into Office, and they let attackers do a lot with very little. Launch PowerShell? Easy. Reach out to a C2 server? Sure. Write persistence to the registry? No problem.
And with a little social engineering, macros still trick people — especially in sectors where documents move fast and scrutiny is low.
Microsoft 365 Has Better Protection — But Adoption Is Uneven
Microsoft wants everyone in the cloud, and sure, Office 365 and its web-based tools do have stronger default security controls. But the reality is, not every org is ready (or willing) to make the switch.
The result? A patchwork of environments. Some users are on hardened Office installs. Others are stuck with older local deployments that haven’t seen a security update in years. For attackers, it’s obvious where to aim.
What Security Teams Should Do (Besides Panic)
If moving off legacy Office is on the roadmap but not yet reality, here’s how to buy some breathing room:
– Use Group Policy to block all macros in files from external sources.
– Set up mail filters that detect and isolate suspicious Office attachments.
– Watch for behavior — not just files. A macro spawning PowerShell should always be a red flag.
– Help users understand that “Enable Content” isn’t just a button. It’s a decision.
Final Thought
Just because macro-based malware went quiet doesn’t mean it disappeared. The threat was always there — it just lost its edge for a while. Now, with older Office versions hanging around and security gaps reopening, it’s finding new ground to grow.
Patching, upgrading, and educating might not be glamorous. But they’re what stands between your org and a very old, very familiar problem that’s suddenly back in style.