CVE-2025-43215 is a medium-severity vulnerability affecting Apple macOS systems, specifically related to the processing of maliciously crafted image files. The vulnerability arises from insufficient validation or checks when handling certain image data, which can lead to unintended disclosure of process memory contents. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-200 (Information Exposure), meaning that sensitive information residing in process memory could be leaked to an attacker. The vulnerability does not allow modification or disruption of system integrity or availability but compromises confidentiality by exposing potentially sensitive data. Exploitation requires local access (Attack Vector: Local), no privileges (PR: None), but does require user interaction (UI: Required), such as opening or processing a malicious image file. The scope is unchanged (S: Unchanged), meaning the impact is limited to the vulnerable component and does not extend beyond it. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5, reflecting a medium severity level. Apple addressed this issue in macOS Sequoia 15.6 by implementing improved validation checks to prevent memory disclosure. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and affected versions are unspecified but presumably all versions prior to 15.6. The vulnerability could be exploited by tricking a user into opening or processing a maliciously crafted image, which then leaks process memory contents, potentially exposing sensitive information such as cryptographic keys, passwords, or other private data stored in memory during the image processing operation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a confidentiality risk, particularly for entities handling sensitive or regulated data on macOS devices. The exposure of process memory could lead to leakage of sensitive information, including credentials, encryption keys, or proprietary data, which could facilitate further attacks or data breaches. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that rely on macOS endpoints may be at risk. Although exploitation requires user interaction and local access, targeted phishing or social engineering campaigns could induce users to open malicious images, especially in environments where macOS is prevalent. The impact is somewhat limited by the need for user interaction and local access, but the potential for sensitive data exposure makes it a concern for organizations with strict data protection requirements under regulations like GDPR. Additionally, the lack of known exploits in the wild suggests that proactive patching can effectively mitigate the risk before widespread exploitation occurs.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS systems to version Sequoia 15.6 or later, where the vulnerability has been fixed. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict email and file filtering to block or quarantine suspicious image files, reducing the risk of malicious images reaching end users. User awareness training should emphasize the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected image files, especially from unknown sources. Endpoint protection solutions with behavioral analysis could help detect anomalous image processing activities. Network segmentation and least privilege principles should be enforced to limit the impact of any potential compromise. Additionally, organizations should monitor macOS systems for unusual memory access patterns or crashes related to image processing applications. Regular audits of macOS endpoints and timely application of security updates are critical to maintaining a secure posture against this vulnerability.