CVE-2025-43205 is a vulnerability identified in Apple watchOS and related Apple operating systems (tvOS, visionOS, iOS, iPadOS) that allows an application to bypass Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR). ASLR is a security technique that randomizes memory addresses to prevent attackers from reliably executing arbitrary code. The root cause of this vulnerability is an out-of-bounds access issue (CWE-125) where bounds checking was insufficient, allowing an app to read or manipulate memory outside its intended boundaries. This flaw was addressed by Apple in watchOS 11.4 and corresponding updates for other OSes by improving bounds checking mechanisms. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.0, reflecting a medium severity level with an attack vector limited to local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction needed (UI:N). The impact is limited to confidentiality loss, with no direct effect on integrity or availability. While no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the ability to bypass ASLR can be a critical step for attackers to escalate privileges or execute further code injection attacks. This vulnerability affects all versions prior to watchOS 11.4 and the corresponding OS versions on other Apple devices. Organizations relying on Apple wearable devices should ensure timely patching to prevent potential exploitation.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-43205 is the potential bypass of ASLR, which undermines a key memory protection mechanism designed to prevent exploitation of memory corruption vulnerabilities. For European organizations, this could facilitate attackers in gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information stored or processed on Apple watchOS devices. Although the vulnerability does not directly compromise integrity or availability, bypassing ASLR can be a stepping stone for more severe attacks such as privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution. Organizations in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government that use Apple wearable devices for authentication, monitoring, or secure communications may face increased risk. The limited attack vector requiring local access reduces the likelihood of remote exploitation but does not eliminate insider threats or attacks via malicious apps. Failure to patch could expose organizations to espionage, data leakage, or targeted attacks leveraging compromised wearable devices.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigation steps: 1) Immediately update all Apple watchOS devices and related Apple OS devices (tvOS, visionOS, iOS, iPadOS) to version 11.4 or later to apply the official patch. 2) Enforce strict app vetting policies to prevent installation of untrusted or malicious applications that could exploit this vulnerability. 3) Limit physical and local access to Apple wearable devices, especially in sensitive environments, to reduce the risk of local exploitation. 4) Monitor device usage and application behavior for anomalies indicative of exploitation attempts. 5) Educate users on the risks of installing unauthorized apps and the importance of timely updates. 6) Integrate device management solutions capable of enforcing OS version compliance and restricting app installations. 7) Coordinate with Apple support and security advisories to stay informed about any emerging exploits or additional patches. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling local access, app security, and patch management specific to Apple wearable ecosystems.