Microsoft SharePoint Vulnerability Exposes 10,000+ Global Organizations to Cyberattacks

A critical vulnerability in Microsoft’s SharePoint server software has triggered global cybersecurity alarms, exposing thousands of organizations to potential system breaches. According to cybersecurity experts and U.S. officials, the flaw affects on-premise SharePoint servers and has already been actively exploited by hackers. The vulnerability enables remote code execution, giving attackers control over internal file systems, configurations, and potentially the entire compromised server.

Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and confirmed that it is releasing patches to mitigate ongoing attacks. However, cybersecurity firms warn that the threat may persist even after patching, particularly if hackers have already stolen authentication keys or embedded backdoors into systems. The cybersecurity firm Censys estimates that over 10,000 organizations worldwide are at risk, with the highest exposure in the United States, followed by the Netherlands, the UK, and Canada.

Palo Alto Networks and Google’s Threat Intelligence Group have both verified that real-world attacks are currently underway, labeling the flaw as a serious and active threat. Experts caution that this vulnerability could be used to launch widespread ransomware attacks, corporate espionage campaigns, and long-term infrastructure compromises. The situation is particularly dangerous due to the unauthenticated and persistent access the flaw allows attackers.

The breach has affected a wide range of organizations, including U.S. federal and state agencies, universities, energy companies, and even a telecommunications firm in Asia. Analysts are calling this a major red flag for IT leaders, especially those in regions like Nigeria where many institutions still rely heavily on on-premise SharePoint systems for internal collaboration. The compromise of SharePoint’s high-trust environment could spell disaster for affected networks.

This incident adds to Microsoft’s growing list of cybersecurity challenges. Earlier this year, the company reported state-backed cyberattacks targeting its cloud platforms. Microsoft has faced ongoing scrutiny regarding its internal security culture, with a U.S. review board last year labeling it “inadequate” following a breach of its Exchange Online services. As SharePoint remains a cornerstone of enterprise communication, this latest breach reinforces urgent calls for stronger cybersecurity posture across industries.

Source: Nairametrics