CVE-2025-4232 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in the Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect application for macOS, specifically affecting versions 6.0.0 through 6.3. The flaw stems from improper neutralization of wildcards or matching symbols (CWE-155) in the log collection feature of the app. This vulnerability allows a non-administrative user on a macOS system to escalate their privileges to root level. The root cause is that the application does not correctly sanitize or handle wildcard characters in log collection operations, which can be exploited to execute unauthorized commands or access restricted resources. Given that GlobalProtect is widely used as a VPN client to secure remote access, this vulnerability undermines the security boundary by enabling local privilege escalation without requiring user interaction or authentication beyond local access. The CVSS 4.0 base score of 8.5 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no user interaction required. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability’s presence in a security-critical application and its ability to grant root privileges make it a significant threat. The vulnerability affects only macOS versions of the GlobalProtect app, which narrows the scope but still impacts organizations relying on macOS endpoints for secure VPN access.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious risk as it allows local users to gain root privileges on macOS devices running vulnerable versions of GlobalProtect. This can lead to full system compromise, enabling attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive corporate data, manipulate logs to cover tracks, or deploy further malware. Organizations with remote workforces using macOS devices for VPN access are particularly at risk. The compromise of a single endpoint could facilitate lateral movement within the network, potentially impacting critical infrastructure, intellectual property, and personal data protected under GDPR. Given the high adoption of Palo Alto Networks products in Europe, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, the potential for disruption and data breaches is significant. The vulnerability’s exploitation could also undermine trust in VPN security, complicating compliance with regulatory requirements for secure remote access.

Organizations should immediately audit their macOS endpoints to identify installations of GlobalProtect versions 6.0.0 through 6.3. Since no official patches are currently available, temporary mitigations include restricting local user access on macOS devices to trusted personnel only and employing endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting suspicious privilege escalation attempts. Administrators should disable or limit the log collection feature if feasible until a patch is released. Monitoring system logs for unusual activity related to GlobalProtect processes and wildcard usage in file operations can provide early warning signs. Additionally, enforcing strict macOS security policies such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and leveraging macOS’s built-in security frameworks can reduce exploitation risk. Organizations should maintain close communication with Palo Alto Networks for timely patch releases and apply updates immediately once available. Finally, incorporating this vulnerability into incident response plans and conducting user awareness training on the risks of local privilege escalation will enhance preparedness.