Macro Settings: Stopping Hidden Threats in Everyday Files

Macro Settings: Stopping Hidden Threats in Everyday Files

Cyber attacks don’t always start with an obvious threat. Sometimes, they begin with a simple Word or Excel document.

Macros – small programs that automate tasks in Microsoft Office – can also be used by attackers to deliver malware and gain access to business systems.

Because many businesses rely on macros to streamline work, it’s important to configure them correctly. That’s why securing Microsoft Office macro settings is one of the Australian Cyber Security Centre’s (ACSC) Essential 8 strategies.

It helps prevent malware from running in your environment and protects your team, data, and clients from hidden risks.

Jump Ahead

• What are Microsoft Macros?
• Why Macro Settings Matter
• Where Macro Settings Fit in the Essential 8
• What Does Effective Macro Management Look Like?
• Common Macro Management Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)
• Implementation in Practice: A Step-by-Step Approach
• How Jam Cyber Helps
• What Success Looks Like
• Next Steps

What are Microsoft Macros?

Macros are short programs written in Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). They record a set of actions, such as clicks or keystrokes, so that repetitive tasks in Word or Excel can be automated

For example, a macro might automatically generate a report, clean data, or apply standard formatting.

However, the same mechanism that saves time can also be misused. Malicious actors can embed harmful macros in documents, sending them as email attachments or downloads. Once opened, the macro can run harmful commands such as installing ransomware, sending spam from your inbox, or spreading to other files on your network.

Because macros can only execute within Microsoft Office applications, configuring macro settings correctly is one of the most effective ways to stop these attacks before they start.

Why Macro Settings Matter

Macros are one of the most common ways attackers deliver malware into Australian businesses. A single infected document can quickly spread across systems, compromise client data, and disrupt operations.

Configuring macro settings:

• Prevents malware execution by blocking untrusted macros from running
• Protects staff and clients from accidental exposure
• Reduces downtime by stopping system slowdowns caused by malicious code
• Minimises phishing risk by preventing harmful attachments from launching even if they are opened

In short, strong macro controls reduce both the likelihood and impact of one of the most common attack methods targeting professional services and SMEs.

Need more advice on macros? Contact our experts today!

Where Macro Settings Fit in the Essential 8

Macro settings sit within the “Prevent Malware Delivery and Execution” group of the ACSC Essential 8.

Alongside Application Control, Patch Applications, and User Application Hardening, this control focuses on stopping malicious code from ever running inside your environment.

What Does Effective Macro Management Look Like?

Effective macro management protects your systems while keeping staff productive. It’s about putting structure and control around how macros are created, approved, and used. A strong framework should include:

1. Clear policy and permissions: Define who can create, edit, and run macros, and what approval process applies.
2. Digitally signed macros only: Allow only macros from trusted and verified sources to execute.
3. Centralised control: Apply consistent macro rules across all devices through group policy or endpoint management.
4. Regular reviews: Audit which macros are in use, who uses them, and whether they’re still required.
5. User education: Train employees to identify suspicious documents and avoid enabling macros from unknown sources.

A structured approach ensures macros remain a business tool rather than a security risk.

Common Macro Management Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)

Even though macro security is straightforward in concept, many businesses face practical challenges when implementing it effectively.

Widespread Macro Use

Teams may rely on macros daily, making it difficult to block them entirely. Start by identifying which macros are essential and convert them into signed, approved versions that can run safely.

Lack of Visibility

It can be hard to know which macros exist and where they’re used. Conduct regular system scans and maintain an approved macro list that is updated centrally.

Unsafe User Behaviour

Staff often enable macros without understanding the risks. Restrict permissions through group policy and reinforce awareness through short, practical training sessions.

Legacy Documents

Older files may contain embedded macros that no longer meet security requirements. Review and clean archived documents or convert them to safer formats where possible.

Inconsistent Settings Across Devices

When different departments manage their own systems, macro policies can drift. Centralise configuration to enforce consistent, organisation-wide protection.

By addressing these issues early, businesses can maintain efficiency while closing a major entry point for malware.

Implementation in Practice: A Step-by-Step Approach

Securing macro settings becomes far more manageable when you follow a structured process. These steps guide your business from assessment to long-term maintenance.

Step 1: Map Macro Usage

Start by identifying where macros are used across your organisation. Note which teams depend on them most and which applications or files are involved.

Step 2: Assess Risks and Requirements

Evaluate which macros are essential for productivity and which pose unnecessary risk. Document who creates or maintains them and whether they come from internal or external sources.

Step 3: Configure Default Restrictions

Set your baseline to block all macros by default. This reduces the chance of an untrusted or malicious macro running without approval.

Step 4: Approve Digitally Signed Macros

Allow only macros that have been verified through a trusted digital signature. This ensures legitimate automation continues while unsafe code is stopped.

Step 5: Apply Central Policy Controls

Use group policy or endpoint management tools to enforce uniform settings across all devices. Consistency is key to preventing policy gaps.

Step 6: Monitor and Maintain

Regularly review macro usage logs, investigate any blocked attempts, and update your approved list as new tools or processes are introduced.

Step 7: Educate and Communicate

Train staff to recognise the risks of enabling macros in unknown documents. Reinforce awareness through periodic reminders and security updates.

Need help securing your Microsoft macro settings? Contact our team to discuss practical steps for reducing risk and improving control.

Contact our team!

How Jam Cyber Helps

Jam Cyber helps Australian businesses configure macro settings as part of a broader cyber security framework.

Our experts identify where macros are used in your systems, apply secure configurations, and ensure the right balance between protection and functionality.

Macro security also integrates with our other core services:

• Cyber Security: Builds strong prevention layers against evolving threats
• Managed IT: Provides continuous monitoring and reporting
• Cyber Guard: Ensures secure configuration across all business devices
• Consultation: Offers tailored advice for governance and compliance
• Cloud Phones: Secures communication and collaboration tools

Together, these form part of Jam Cyber’s 360° Business Suite, giving you confidence that hidden threats are controlled at every level.

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What Success Looks Like

When macro settings are configured correctly, staff can work efficiently without fear of hidden malware. Infected documents are blocked before they can run, keeping systems stable and reducing the risk of business interruption. Clients and contacts remain protected from accidental exposure, while your business maintains productivity with stronger, more consistent protection.

Next Steps

Macro settings are a small change that make a big difference. Review your configuration and ensure that only trusted macros can run within your systems.

To see how macro management fits into your wider cyber security plan, speak with our team about securing your business.

Need help? Contact our experts for advice.

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