CVE-2025-43235 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS related to improper memory handling that can be triggered by a local application to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition. The issue is categorized under CWE-400, which involves uncontrolled resource consumption leading to system unavailability. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions of macOS prior to the release of macOS Sequoia 15.6, where Apple addressed the problem by improving memory management. Exploitation requires local access and user interaction but does not require privileges or authentication, indicating that any user running a malicious or compromised app could trigger the DoS. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium), with vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:H, indicating local attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction required, unchanged scope, no confidentiality or integrity impact, but high impact on availability. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, suggesting limited current threat activity. The vulnerability could allow attackers to disrupt system availability, potentially impacting user productivity and critical operations on affected macOS devices.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-43235 is the potential for denial-of-service attacks on macOS systems, which can disrupt business operations, especially in environments relying heavily on Apple hardware and software. This could affect sectors such as finance, media, design, and government agencies where macOS adoption is significant. While the vulnerability does not compromise data confidentiality or integrity, the loss of availability can lead to operational downtime, reduced productivity, and potential financial losses. In critical infrastructure or service provider contexts, repeated or targeted DoS attacks could degrade service quality or availability. Since exploitation requires local access and user interaction, insider threats or social engineering could facilitate attacks. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future attacks.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to version Sequoia 15.6 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. Implement strict application control policies to limit the execution of untrusted or unsigned applications, reducing the risk of malicious apps triggering the DoS. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous app behavior and resource consumption. Educate users about the risks of running unverified applications and the importance of avoiding suspicious downloads or links that could lead to local exploitation. Regularly audit and monitor macOS systems for unusual crashes or resource exhaustion symptoms. In environments with high security requirements, consider restricting local user permissions and applying least privilege principles to minimize the impact of potential exploitation. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from any DoS incidents.