Critical Vulnerability – Update Microsoft Outlook ASAP (March 2023)
We’ve recently been made aware of a critical vulnerability affecting Microsoft Outlook. The exploit if triggered upon the receipt of a malicious email, so is executed before the email is opened or interacted with in any way by the end user. In order to avoid any potential issues related to this exploit we recommend updating Outlook to the latest version available, which includes a fix for the vulnerability.
Customer Information
If you have our PEM (Proactive Essential Maintenance) survey then this will be actioned on your next scheduled visit, but we strongly recommend that you ask your team to apply the simple fix, detailed below.
How to update your Microsoft Outlook version
To apply the latest update to your Microsoft Outlook and your Microsoft Office package, you can simply follow these steps:
- Open Microsoft Outlook (or any other office application).
- Click “File” in the top left corner.
- Click “Office Account” (1) on the left.
- Click “Update Options” (2) then “Update Now” (3).

Posted by Phil Denham
Phil’s work sits at the intersection of marketing, technology, and commercial strategy. He has also worked closely across the wider HBP organisation, supporting sales and marketing activity across multiple companies and brands. His writing focuses on how IT, software, and emerging technologies (including AI) can help businesses improve efficiency, strengthen performance, and drive sustainable growth.
Phil holds a BA (Hons) in Communications from the University of Lincoln and an E-Marketing Award from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM).