CVE-2025-30450 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that stems from insufficient validation of symbolic links (symlinks) within the operating system. This flaw allows a malicious application to bypass intended access controls and access sensitive user data that should otherwise be protected. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control), indicating that the system fails to enforce proper restrictions on resource access. The issue was addressed by Apple through improved symlink validation mechanisms in macOS Ventura 13.7.5, macOS Sequoia 15.4, and macOS Sonoma 14.7.5. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium severity), with vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N, meaning the attack requires local access, low complexity, no privileges, and user interaction, affecting confidentiality but not integrity or availability. The vulnerability allows an app, once executed by the user, to access sensitive data by exploiting symlink traversal or manipulation, potentially leading to unauthorized data disclosure. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the risk remains for users running unpatched versions. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure file system operations and access control enforcement in macOS environments.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk of sensitive data exposure on macOS devices if malicious applications are installed and executed by users. Confidentiality of user data could be compromised, potentially leading to leakage of personal or corporate information. While the vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, the unauthorized access to sensitive data can have regulatory and reputational consequences, especially under GDPR requirements. Organizations with macOS endpoints in their IT environment, particularly those handling sensitive or regulated data, may face increased risk if patches are not applied promptly. The requirement for local access and user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate the threat from insider attacks or social engineering. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not preclude future exploitation attempts.

European organizations should ensure all macOS devices are updated to at least macOS Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, or Sonoma 14.7.5 to apply the patch addressing this vulnerability. Endpoint management solutions should be used to enforce timely patch deployment and verify compliance. Restrict installation of applications to trusted sources and implement application whitelisting to reduce the risk of malicious app execution. Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted software and the importance of avoiding suspicious links or files that could trigger exploitation. Employ monitoring and endpoint detection tools to identify unusual file system activities or symlink manipulations. Regularly audit macOS systems for outdated versions and unauthorized software. Consider implementing stricter access controls and sandboxing for applications to limit their ability to access sensitive data. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to mitigate potential data exposure consequences.