“That date is of course, Patch Tuesday, so Office 2000 users can expect their last security patches for this still-popular version of Office to be issued on that date”, said Richard Kirk, Fortify’s European director. “From that date onwards, however, if any security threats are discovered with this version of Office, no patches or updates will be issued.”

Users of customised applications, often operating at macro extensions of Office 2000, should start reworking their specialist software as soon as possible, Kirk said. Organisations using custom Office extensions should also avoid continuing using Office 2000.

“As soon as we reach July 14, the malware cock will start ticking on this version of Office and there will undoubtedly be hackers preparing to exploit this weakness in firm’s security armour. This is no reflection on the efficacy of Microsoft’s software, merely the fact that hackers and malware developers will now be gunning for Office 2000. Companies need to be aware of this possibility and prepare accordingly”, Kirk added.