CVE-2025-43196 is a privilege escalation vulnerability affecting Apple macOS operating systems. The vulnerability stems from a path handling issue that allows an application to gain root privileges by exploiting insufficient validation of file system paths. This type of flaw typically involves improper sanitization or verification of path inputs, which can be manipulated to bypass security controls and execute code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability affects multiple recent versions of macOS, including macOS Sequoia 15.6, macOS Sonoma 14.7.7, and macOS Ventura 13.7.7, with patches released to address the issue by improving path validation mechanisms. Although the exact affected versions prior to these patched releases are unspecified, the vulnerability is significant because it enables an unprivileged app to escalate its privileges to root, potentially compromising the entire system. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. However, the nature of the vulnerability suggests that exploitation would not require user interaction once an app is installed or executed, and it could lead to full system compromise, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, system integrity breaches, and disruption of availability.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious risk, especially for enterprises and institutions relying on macOS devices for critical operations. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain root access, enabling them to install persistent malware, exfiltrate confidential information, disrupt services, or manipulate system configurations. This is particularly concerning for sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology, where data confidentiality and system integrity are paramount. The ability to escalate privileges without user interaction increases the risk of automated or stealthy attacks. Additionally, organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies or remote workforces using macOS devices may face increased exposure. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits following public disclosure. The patch availability mitigates risk if promptly applied, but delayed updates could leave systems vulnerable.

European organizations should prioritize the following mitigation steps: 1) Immediate deployment of the security updates for macOS Sequoia 15.6, Sonoma 14.7.7, and Ventura 13.7.7 across all managed devices to close the vulnerability. 2) Implement strict application control policies to restrict installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications, reducing the attack surface for malicious apps attempting privilege escalation. 3) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for suspicious privilege escalation behaviors and anomalous path manipulations. 4) Conduct regular audits of macOS systems to ensure compliance with patch management and security configurations. 5) Educate users about the risks of installing unauthorized software and encourage reporting of unusual system behavior. 6) For organizations with macOS device fleets, consider deploying Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies and automate patch distribution. These measures, combined with vigilant monitoring, will reduce the likelihood and impact of exploitation.