In the latest round of security updates, Microsoft has addressed a significant number of vulnerabilities, totaling 130, as part of its monthly Patch Tuesday initiative. Among these, researchers have raised alarms about a particularly severe defect in SQL Server, identified as CVE-2025-49719, which carries a CVSS score of 7.5. This vulnerability, which was disclosed publicly prior to the patch, is rooted in improper input validation within SQL Server’s memory management system, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive data remnants.
Mike Walters, president and co-founder of Action1, expressed concerns regarding the implications of this vulnerability. He noted that the lack of authentication requirements, combined with the vast amounts of sensitive data stored in affected databases, makes it a pressing issue. The vulnerability affects SQL Server versions released between 2016 and 2022, raising the stakes for organizations that rely on these systems.
Walters cautioned that while the vulnerability is currently rated as having a lower likelihood of exploitation, the public disclosure could lead to increased risk over time, especially in advanced attack scenarios. “This vulnerability can be exploited in advanced attack scenarios,” he stated, highlighting the potential for malicious actors to leverage this flaw.
Critical Vulnerabilities in Focus
Another critical vulnerability highlighted in this month’s update is CVE-2025-47981, which pertains to a remote code execution flaw in Windows SPNEGO Extended Negotiation. With a staggering CVSS score of 9.8, this vulnerability allows unauthenticated remote code execution without user interaction, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to infiltrate enterprise networks.
Ben McCarthy, lead cyber security engineer at Immersive Labs, emphasized the urgency of addressing this vulnerability. He noted that its low attack complexity and potential for lateral movement within networks make it particularly valuable to adversaries. In light of this, Ben Harris, CEO at watchTowr, urged organizations to prioritize patching CVE-2025-47981 and to actively search for any exposed systems. “If the private industry has noticed this vulnerability, it is certainly already on the radar of every attacker with an ounce of malice,” he warned.
In addition to these critical vulnerabilities, Microsoft’s latest batch of CVE disclosures includes 16 vulnerabilities affecting Microsoft Office and standalone Office products, with four of these defects categorized as more likely to be exploited. For organizations navigating the complexities of cybersecurity, staying informed about these vulnerabilities is essential for maintaining robust defenses.
The comprehensive list of vulnerabilities addressed this month can be found in Microsoft’s Security Response Center, serving as a crucial resource for businesses aiming to fortify their security posture in an increasingly perilous digital landscape.