Macro analysis examines embedded code within documents, focusing primarily on Microsoft Office files that contain VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) macros. This technique goes beyond simply detecting macros—it analyzes how they behave, their intent, and whether they pose a potential security risk.
Macro analysis can help you detect:
Auto-executing macros that run as soon as documents are opened
Obfuscated or encoded commands that hide malicious actions
Suspicious API calls that access system resources or modify settings
Attempts to run commands through shell or PowerShell
Data exfiltration methods within macro code
For example, attackers might distribute seemingly legitimate Excel files with embedded macros that, when activated, download malware or establish persistence on your system.