CVE-2025-43184 is a critical vulnerability affecting Apple's macOS operating system, specifically related to the Shortcuts app. The Shortcuts app allows users to automate tasks on their Mac devices by creating custom workflows. This vulnerability enables a malicious shortcut to bypass sensitive settings within the Shortcuts app that are designed to protect user privacy and system security. Essentially, the flaw allows a shortcut to execute actions or access data that should normally require explicit user consent or be restricted by the app's security controls. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284, which pertains to improper access control, indicating that the Shortcuts app failed to enforce adequate permission checks. The issue was addressed by Apple through the introduction of an additional prompt for user consent, ensuring that shortcuts cannot silently bypass security settings. The fix is included in macOS Sonoma 14.7.7, macOS Ventura 13.7.7, and macOS Sequoia 15.4. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8 reflects the critical nature of this vulnerability, highlighting its potential for remote exploitation without any privileges or user interaction, and its severe impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those relying on macOS devices in their IT infrastructure or employee endpoints. An attacker exploiting this flaw could execute unauthorized actions, access sensitive data, or manipulate system settings without user consent, potentially leading to data breaches, espionage, or disruption of business operations. Given the high CVSS score and the fact that no privileges or user interaction are required, the threat could be exploited remotely or through malicious shortcuts delivered via email, messaging, or compromised websites. This could undermine compliance with stringent European data protection regulations such as GDPR, exposing organizations to legal and financial penalties. Furthermore, sectors with high reliance on macOS, such as creative industries, finance, and government agencies, may face elevated risks of targeted attacks leveraging this vulnerability.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to the patched versions: Sonoma 14.7.7, Ventura 13.7.7, or Sequoia 15.4 as soon as possible. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict controls on the creation and execution of shortcuts, including disabling the Shortcuts app where not necessary or restricting its use to trusted users. Endpoint security solutions should be configured to detect and block suspicious shortcut files or behaviors. User awareness training should emphasize the risks of running untrusted shortcuts and the importance of verifying prompts requesting consent. Additionally, organizations should audit existing shortcuts for potentially unsafe actions and enforce policies that require administrative approval for deploying new shortcuts. Network monitoring for anomalous activities originating from macOS devices can help detect exploitation attempts. Finally, maintaining robust backup and incident response plans will help mitigate the impact if exploitation occurs.