CVE-2025-43184 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS's Shortcuts app, which enables automation of tasks on the system. The vulnerability allows a maliciously crafted shortcut to bypass sensitive Shortcuts app settings that normally require explicit user consent before execution. This bypass means that an attacker can execute potentially harmful actions without triggering the expected security prompts, effectively elevating the shortcut's privileges. The flaw is rooted in improper enforcement of access control (CWE-284) within the Shortcuts app, allowing unauthorized operations that compromise system security. The vulnerability affects multiple macOS versions prior to the patched releases: macOS Sonoma 14.7.7, Ventura 13.7.7, and Sequoia 15.4. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 9.8, reflecting a critical severity with network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). This means an attacker can remotely exploit the vulnerability without any authentication or user action, leading to full system compromise. Apple mitigated the issue by introducing an additional prompt for user consent, ensuring that shortcuts cannot silently bypass security settings. While no public exploits have been reported yet, the vulnerability's characteristics make it a prime target for attackers aiming to gain unauthorized control over macOS systems via automated shortcuts.

The impact of CVE-2025-43184 on European organizations is significant due to the widespread use of Apple macOS devices in corporate environments, especially in sectors like finance, technology, and creative industries. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized execution of arbitrary commands, data theft, system manipulation, and potential deployment of malware or ransomware. The bypass of sensitive Shortcuts app settings undermines user consent mechanisms, increasing the risk of stealthy attacks that evade detection. Confidentiality is at high risk as attackers can access sensitive data; integrity is compromised through unauthorized system changes; availability may be affected if critical services are disrupted. For organizations relying on macOS for critical operations, this vulnerability could lead to operational downtime, data breaches, and regulatory non-compliance under GDPR. The ease of exploitation without user interaction or privileges exacerbates the threat, making it feasible for attackers to conduct widespread automated attacks or targeted intrusions with minimal barriers.

European organizations should immediately update all macOS devices to the patched versions: macOS Sonoma 14.7.7, Ventura 13.7.7, or Sequoia 15.4 to remediate CVE-2025-43184. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict policies controlling the creation and execution of shortcuts, including disabling shortcuts from untrusted sources and enforcing code signing for shortcuts where possible. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions should be configured to monitor and alert on unusual shortcut activity or privilege escalations related to the Shortcuts app. User awareness training should emphasize the risks of executing unverified shortcuts. Network segmentation can limit the spread of potential compromise originating from vulnerable macOS devices. Additionally, organizations should audit existing shortcuts for suspicious or overly permissive actions and restrict administrative privileges to reduce the attack surface. Regular vulnerability scanning and compliance checks should include verification of macOS patch levels and shortcut execution policies.