CVE-2025-10015 is a medium-severity vulnerability in the Sparkle framework, specifically involving an XPC service named Downloader.xpc. Sparkle is a popular software update framework for macOS applications. The Downloader.xpc service is intended to be private and accessible only by the application it is bundled with. However, due to improper authorization checks (CWE-863), a local unprivileged attacker can register this XPC service globally. By doing so, the attacker inherits the Transparency, Consent, and Control (TCC) permissions granted to the legitimate application. This flaw arises because the service does not validate the identity of the connecting client, allowing unauthorized access. Exploiting this vulnerability enables the attacker to copy files protected by TCC to arbitrary locations on the system without requiring user interaction. However, accessing other protected resources beyond the granted permissions still triggers system prompts requiring user consent. The vulnerability affects all versions of Sparkle prior to 2.7.2, where the issue has been fixed. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 4.8, reflecting a medium severity with local attack vector, low attack complexity, no user interaction, and limited impact on confidentiality and integrity. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild. This vulnerability primarily impacts macOS applications using vulnerable versions of Sparkle, potentially allowing local attackers to bypass macOS privacy protections and exfiltrate sensitive user data that is otherwise protected by TCC policies.

For European organizations, especially those developing or deploying macOS applications using the Sparkle framework, this vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized local data access. Attackers with local access (e.g., via compromised user accounts or insider threats) could exploit this flaw to copy sensitive files protected by macOS privacy controls without triggering user consent dialogs. This could lead to leakage of confidential information such as personal data, credentials, or intellectual property. Organizations in sectors with strict data protection requirements, such as finance, healthcare, and government, may face compliance risks under GDPR if sensitive data is exposed. Although remote exploitation is not feasible, the vulnerability increases the risk surface for insider attacks or malware that gains local user privileges. The limited scope of the vulnerability means it does not directly affect availability or system integrity but compromises confidentiality. The lack of user interaction requirement for copying TCC-protected files makes it stealthier and harder to detect. Overall, the impact is significant for organizations relying on Sparkle for macOS app updates and handling sensitive user data, necessitating prompt remediation to maintain compliance and data security.

European organizations should immediately upgrade all Sparkle framework instances to version 2.7.2 or later, where this vulnerability is fixed. For applications that cannot be updated promptly, implement strict local access controls to limit unprivileged user access to systems running vulnerable Sparkle versions. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for unusual XPC service registrations or unauthorized file copying activities. Conduct code reviews and audits of macOS applications using Sparkle to ensure no insecure usage patterns exist. Additionally, enforce the principle of least privilege for user accounts to reduce the risk of local exploitation. Consider deploying macOS privacy and security configurations that restrict or log XPC service registrations. Finally, educate developers and IT staff about this vulnerability and the importance of timely patching of third-party frameworks to prevent similar issues.