Microsoft has launched some new features in its Excel spreadsheet software that will boost its power. But will that only be for the benefit of users?
In its blog post about the new functionality, Microsoft says that there are “many reasons” why people might be interested in writing JavaScript custom functions, and gives the following examples:
- Calculate math operations, like whether a number is prime.
- Bring information from the web, like a bank account balance.
- Stream live data, like a stock price.
Hmm… Yes, well, I can think of a few more examples that maliciously-minded developers might be keen to try out.
But hey, nothing bad could come of this, surely!
Note: The Excel JavaScript custom functions “feature” is currently available in the Developer Preview edition to Office 365 subscribers enrolled in the Office Insiders program. Presumably in the fullness of time it will be rolled out to all users.
See also: Cryptomining with JavaScript in an Excel spreadsheet
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Any readers know if Microsoft will have a group policy to disable the feature?
This new inherent risk is just piling on at this point. Many organizations don't even have a way to keep an up-to-date inventory of financially-significant and operationally-significant spreadsheets, much less protect them from accidental or malicious alterations. As the 'killer app', the spreadsheet in used nearly everywhere to support decisions and feed financial systems, yet remains a weak link in data protection.
PEM – is spot on with his comment.