Microsoft PowerPoint is prone to a remote code-execution vulnerability. An attacker can exploit this issue to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently logged-in user.
Block external access at the network boundary, unless external parties require service.
If global access isnβt needed, filter access to the affected computer at the network boundary. Restricting access to only trusted computers and networks might greatly reduce the likelihood of a successful exploit.
Deploy network intrusion detection systems to monitor network traffic for malicious activity.
Deploy NIDS to monitor network traffic for signs of anomalous or suspicious activity. This includes but is not limited to requests that include NOP sleds and unexplained incoming and outgoing traffic. This may indicate exploit attempts or activity that results from a successful exploit.
Do not accept or execute files from untrusted or unknown sources.
To reduce the likelihood of successful exploits, never handle files that originate from unfamiliar or untrusted sources.
Implement multiple redundant layers of security.
Various memory-protection schemes (such as nonexecutable and randomly mapped memory segments) may hinder an attackerβs ability to exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code.
The vendor has released an advisory and updates. Please see the references for details.