CVE-2025-30467 is an address bar spoofing vulnerability identified in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS platforms, specifically affecting the Safari browser component. The vulnerability arises from insufficient validation of the URL displayed in the address bar when a user visits a maliciously crafted website. An attacker can exploit this flaw by hosting a website that manipulates the address bar display, causing it to show a legitimate or trusted URL instead of the actual malicious one. This form of spoofing undermines the integrity of the browser’s user interface, potentially deceiving users into believing they are on a safe site when they are not. The vulnerability does not require any privileges or authentication but does require user interaction in the form of visiting the malicious site. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.3 (medium), reflecting the network attack vector, low complexity, no privileges required, but requiring user interaction and impacting only integrity. Apple fixed the issue in Safari 18.4, iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4 by introducing improved checks to validate the address bar content and prevent spoofing. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-451 (Incorrect Expression of URL or Filename). No public exploits have been reported yet, but the nature of the flaw makes it a potential vector for phishing and social engineering attacks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk primarily to user trust and security awareness. Spoofed address bars can facilitate sophisticated phishing campaigns targeting employees, customers, or partners by making malicious websites appear legitimate. This can lead to credential theft, unauthorized access to corporate systems, or data leakage. Sectors relying heavily on mobile Apple devices, such as finance, healthcare, and government, are particularly vulnerable to targeted phishing attacks exploiting this flaw. The impact on confidentiality is indirect but potentially severe if phishing leads to credential compromise. Integrity of the browsing experience is directly affected, undermining user confidence in web security. Availability is not impacted. The vulnerability’s exploitation requires user interaction, which means phishing campaigns must be well-crafted to succeed. However, the widespread use of iOS and iPadOS devices in Europe increases the attack surface. Organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies or remote workforces using Apple devices should be especially cautious.

European organizations should implement a multi-layered mitigation strategy beyond simply applying patches. First and foremost, ensure all Apple devices are updated promptly to iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, Safari 18.4, or later versions that contain the fix. Deploy Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce timely updates and monitor device compliance. Educate users about the risks of phishing and address bar spoofing, emphasizing vigilance when clicking links and verifying website authenticity through additional means, such as direct URL entry or bookmarks. Implement email filtering and web gateway solutions that detect and block known phishing URLs and malicious content. Encourage the use of multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce the impact of credential theft. Consider deploying browser extensions or security tools that highlight URL discrepancies or warn about suspicious sites. Regularly conduct phishing simulation exercises to raise awareness and test user readiness. For critical systems, restrict access from unmanaged or unpatched devices. Finally, monitor threat intelligence feeds for emerging exploit attempts related to this vulnerability.