If you thought you could finally relax after last week’s security scares, think again. November 2025 is shaping up to be a stressful month for tech security. Just days after warnings about Apple devices, the Indian government has issued a new, serious alert for millions of people using Microsoft products.
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) published a “High Severity” advisory (CIAD-2025-0043) on November 13. This warning is for everyone who uses a Windows PC, Microsoft Excel, or Azure services.
Why This Warning Is a Big Deal
This isn’t your average update reminder. The advisory points to a nasty flaw (CVE-2025-62215) deep in the Windows kernel—the very heart of the operating system.
The most alarming part? CERT-In says this bug is being “exploited in the wild.” In simple terms, that means hackers have already found this weakness and are actively using it right now to break into computers.
If they get in, they can achieve “privilege escalation,” which is like a burglar stealing the master keys to your entire building. It gives them full admin access to take complete control of your device.
Who Is at Risk? (It’s a Long List)
This new alert follows right on the heels of the iOS and iPadOS warnings, but this Microsoft issue affects a huge range of software. You’re at risk if you use:
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Windows (most versions)
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Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
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Azure and SQL Server
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System Centre and other Developer Tools
The dangers are real: hackers could steal your data, lock up your files in a ransomware attack, or even run harmful software on your PC from afar (Remote Code Execution) without you ever knowing.
How to Protect Yourself (Do This Now)
The good news is that Microsoft has already released the fixes. You just need to install them. Here is your simple, 3-step action plan from CERT-In.
1. Update Windows Immediately Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates. Install the November 2025 Cumulative Update as soon as you see it.
2. Patch Your Office Apps Don’t forget Office! Open any app like Word or Excel, then go to: File → Account → Update Options → Update Now.
3. Restart Your Computer Many of these security fixes only work after you reboot. If you’re someone who just puts your laptop to Sleep for weeks, do a full restart today.
