CVE-2025-30440 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows an application to bypass the Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR) security mechanism. ASLR is a critical defense technique that randomizes memory address locations to prevent attackers from reliably executing code or exploiting memory corruption bugs. The vulnerability arises due to insufficient checks in the macOS kernel or system libraries that an application can exploit to predict or control memory layout despite ASLR protections. This flaw affects multiple macOS versions before the patched releases: Ventura 13.7.6, Sequoia 15.5, and Sonoma 14.7.6. The CVSS v3.1 score of 5.5 (medium severity) reflects that the attack vector requires local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges (PR:N), but does require user interaction (UI:R). The impact is primarily on integrity (I:H), with no direct confidentiality or availability impact. By bypassing ASLR, an attacker can facilitate further exploitation such as code injection or privilege escalation. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-863 (Incorrect Authorization), indicating a failure in enforcing proper access controls or checks. No known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, but the presence of this vulnerability increases the risk profile of affected systems. Apple has addressed the issue by implementing improved checks in the specified macOS versions. Organizations running older versions are vulnerable to attacks that could leverage this flaw to compromise system integrity.

For European organizations, the ability to bypass ASLR on macOS systems can significantly increase the risk of successful exploitation of other vulnerabilities, especially those involving memory corruption. This can lead to unauthorized code execution or privilege escalation, undermining system integrity. While confidentiality and availability are not directly impacted, the integrity compromise can facilitate advanced persistent threats or malware deployment. Organizations relying on macOS for critical operations, development, or sensitive data processing may face increased risk of targeted attacks. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments with shared or multi-user systems. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate threat but does not preclude future exploitation. European entities in sectors such as finance, government, and technology with significant macOS usage should prioritize mitigation to prevent potential lateral movement or privilege escalation within their networks.

1. Immediately update all macOS systems to the patched versions: Ventura 13.7.6, Sequoia 15.5, or Sonoma 14.7.6. 2. Enforce strict application control policies to limit the installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications that could attempt to exploit this vulnerability. 3. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for suspicious local activity indicative of ASLR bypass attempts or exploitation chains. 4. Educate users about the risks of executing untrusted applications and the importance of avoiding social engineering that could trigger user interaction required for exploitation. 5. Regularly audit and restrict local user privileges to minimize the ability of attackers to execute code locally. 6. Employ network segmentation to limit the impact of compromised macOS devices within the organizational infrastructure. 7. Monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence sources for any emerging exploit reports or additional mitigation guidance.