The Word vulnerability helps hackers gain control of the PC

Microsoft warns of unpatched Zero-day errors in text editing software that could be exploited by hackers to run malicious programs on victim computers. Users need to be careful when opening Word files attached to e-mails or sent via other Internet media.

This error is exploited by inserting a string of characters in Word documents, making the PC's memory misleading and allowing the attacker to execute the program at will. The versions of Word 2000, 2002, 2003, Word Viewer 2003, Microsoft Works are at risk of being exploited.

Currently, hackers tend to focus on vulnerable and unpatched programs. This action is called "Zero-day attack", making the victim unable to keep up. Microsoft's office suite is being hacked by hackers because it contains more errors than the Windows operating system.

" Cyber ​​criminals know that Zero-day errors are worthwhile and they can be exploited to earn a lot of money, " said Cesar Cerrudo, director of security firm Argeniss (Argentina). " They will attach Trojans, spyware to get information and passwords ."

FrSIRT security page has taken this vulnerability to the "serious" warning level. Microsoft will release an update for Word on December 12.