A Comprehensive Survey of Microsoft Office Macros' Dual Role in Enhancing Efficiency and Elevating Security Risks

Microsoft Office macros have revolutionized task automation and productivity in Office applications. Despite their benefits, their misuse has made them a prominent security threat, as malicious actors exploit VBA macros to deploy malware, steal data, and com-promise systems. This paper examines the dual nature of macros, balancing their utility against the associated risks. It investigates the historical evolution of macros, the tactics used by attackers, and the vulnerabilities in macro-enabled Office files. The study highlights recent Microsoft security updates, such as default macro blocking in untrusted files, and evaluates existing detection tools and configurations. It also provides practical recommendations for securing macro settings and proposes a signature-based detection tool with a user-friendly interface tailored for non-technical users. By addressing current gaps, this study offers a proactive framework to mitigate macro-related threats, enhancing security while preserving the usability of Microsoft Office environments.