CVE-2025-43230 is a vulnerability identified in Apple’s iPadOS and other related operating systems (iOS, watchOS, visionOS, macOS Sequoia, tvOS) that allows an application to access user-sensitive data without proper authorization. The root cause is insufficient permissions checks (CWE-863), which means that apps could bypass intended access controls and read data they should not be able to access. The vulnerability is present in unspecified versions prior to the patched releases: iPadOS 17.7.9, iOS 18.6, watchOS 11.6, visionOS 2.6, macOS Sequoia 15.6, and tvOS 18.6. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.0 (medium), with an attack vector of local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacts confidentiality only (C:L), with no impact on integrity or availability. This means an attacker with local access to the device can exploit the vulnerability without needing elevated privileges or user interaction to gain access to sensitive data. No public exploits or active exploitation have been reported yet. The issue was addressed by Apple through additional permissions checks in the affected OS versions. This vulnerability could be exploited by malicious apps installed on a device to access sensitive user data, potentially leading to privacy violations or data leakage. The scope is limited to devices running vulnerable OS versions and requires local presence or app installation capability.

For European organizations, the primary impact is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive user data on Apple devices. This could include personal information, corporate data, or other confidential content stored or accessible on iPadOS and related Apple platforms. Since the vulnerability does not affect integrity or availability, the risk is mainly to confidentiality. However, data leakage can lead to compliance issues under GDPR and damage to organizational reputation. The requirement for local access or app installation limits remote exploitation, but insider threats or supply chain attacks involving malicious apps could leverage this vulnerability. Organizations relying heavily on Apple devices for business operations, especially in sectors handling sensitive data such as finance, healthcare, and government, may face increased risk. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate the risk of future attacks. Timely patching is critical to mitigate potential data breaches.

European organizations should prioritize updating all Apple devices to the patched OS versions: iPadOS 17.7.9 or later, iOS 18.6 or later, watchOS 11.6 or later, visionOS 2.6 or later, macOS Sequoia 15.6 or later, and tvOS 18.6 or later. Implement strict application control policies to prevent installation of unauthorized or untrusted apps, including the use of Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce app whitelisting and restrict sideloading. Conduct regular audits of installed applications and monitor for suspicious app behavior that could indicate exploitation attempts. Educate users about the risks of installing apps from untrusted sources. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting anomalous access to sensitive data on Apple devices. For highly sensitive environments, consider additional data encryption and access controls at the application level. Maintain an inventory of Apple devices and ensure compliance with patch management policies. Finally, monitor threat intelligence sources for any emerging exploits related to this vulnerability.