CVE-2025-43196 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS caused by improper path handling, specifically an insufficient validation of pathname inputs that could allow an application to escalate privileges to root. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-22, which involves directory traversal or path traversal issues that enable attackers to access restricted directories or files. The flaw allows an app running with limited privileges to manipulate file system paths in a way that bypasses security checks, ultimately gaining root-level access. The vulnerability affects multiple macOS versions prior to the patched releases: macOS Sequoia 15.6, macOS Sonoma 14.7.7, and macOS Ventura 13.7.7. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.8, indicating high severity, with an attack vector of local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring privileges (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all high). No known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, but the potential for exploitation exists given the nature of the flaw. The vulnerability could be leveraged by malicious insiders or attackers who have gained limited access to a system to escalate privileges and take full control, potentially leading to data theft, system manipulation, or denial of service. The issue was addressed by Apple through improved validation of path inputs to prevent unauthorized privilege escalation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those relying on macOS systems in sensitive environments such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to access confidential data, alter system configurations, or disrupt services. The ability to gain root privileges means attackers can bypass most security controls, install persistent malware, or move laterally within networks. Given the high adoption of Apple products in certain European countries and sectors, the impact could be widespread. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using macOS devices are particularly vulnerable if endpoint security is not robust. Additionally, the lack of required user interaction lowers the barrier for exploitation once local access is obtained, increasing the threat level from insider threats or attackers who have compromised lower-privileged accounts.

1. Immediately apply the security updates released by Apple for macOS Sequoia 15.6, Sonoma 14.7.7, and Ventura 13.7.7 to ensure the vulnerability is patched. 2. Implement strict application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized or untrusted applications from executing on macOS systems. 3. Enforce the principle of least privilege by limiting user and application permissions to the minimum necessary, reducing the risk of privilege escalation. 4. Monitor system logs and use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect unusual local privilege escalation attempts or suspicious path manipulations. 5. Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments on macOS endpoints to identify and remediate potential weaknesses. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of local privilege escalation and the importance of applying patches promptly. 7. Consider network segmentation to limit the impact of a compromised macOS device within the organizational network. 8. Use macOS built-in security features such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and secure boot to add layers of defense against unauthorized modifications.