CVE-2025-31269 is a permissions-related vulnerability affecting Apple macOS, specifically addressed in the macOS Sonoma 14.8 update. The issue stems from insufficient restrictions on app permissions, allowing an application to access protected user data that should normally be inaccessible without proper authorization. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control). According to the CVSS v3.1 vector (AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N), exploitation requires local access (local attack vector) and user interaction but no privileges or authentication. The impact is high on confidentiality, as sensitive user data can be exposed, but there is no impact on integrity or availability. The vulnerability does not appear to be exploited in the wild yet. The fix involves implementing additional restrictions on app permissions to prevent unauthorized data access. The affected versions are unspecified but presumably include macOS versions prior to 14.8. This vulnerability highlights the risk posed by insufficient permission controls in endpoint operating systems, especially in environments where users may install third-party applications.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a significant confidentiality risk, especially for entities handling sensitive or regulated data on macOS devices. Unauthorized access to protected user data could lead to data breaches, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations), and reputational damage. The lack of impact on integrity and availability limits the scope to data exposure rather than system disruption. However, since exploitation requires local access and user interaction, the threat is more relevant in scenarios where users might be tricked into running malicious apps or where insider threats exist. Organizations with a high number of macOS endpoints, such as creative industries, software development firms, and financial institutions, are particularly at risk. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate urgency but does not eliminate the risk of future exploitation. Prompt patching and permission management are critical to mitigating potential impacts.

1. Immediately update all macOS devices to version Sonoma 14.8 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. 2. Implement strict application whitelisting policies to prevent installation of unauthorized or untrusted applications. 3. Review and restrict app permissions, especially those requesting access to protected user data, using macOS privacy settings and Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions. 4. Educate users about the risks of installing unknown applications and the importance of cautious user interaction to prevent exploitation. 5. Monitor endpoint devices for unusual app behavior or unauthorized access attempts to sensitive data. 6. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting suspicious local activities related to data access. 7. Regularly audit macOS device configurations and installed applications to ensure compliance with security policies. 8. For organizations with hybrid environments, ensure that macOS-specific security controls are integrated into broader security frameworks.