CVE-2025-43249 is a logic flaw in Apple macOS privilege management that allows an application to escalate its privileges to root. The vulnerability arises due to inadequate validation checks within the system's privilege elevation mechanisms, classified under CWE-269 (Improper Privilege Management). This flaw permits an unprivileged app to bypass normal security controls and gain full administrative rights. The issue affects multiple macOS versions prior to the patches released in macOS Sequoia 15.6, Sonoma 14.7.7, and Ventura 13.7.7, where Apple implemented improved checks to address the problem. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating high severity, with an attack vector limited to local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but requiring user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). This means that a successful exploit can fully compromise the system. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the potential for complete system takeover. The flaw is particularly critical for environments where macOS devices are used for sensitive operations or contain valuable data. The vulnerability's exploitation requires an attacker to have local access and trick a user into executing a malicious app or code, which then escalates privileges to root. This can lead to unauthorized data access, system manipulation, installation of persistent malware, or disruption of services.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a serious threat to the security of macOS endpoints. The ability for an app to gain root privileges can lead to full system compromise, exposing sensitive corporate data, intellectual property, and personal information. It can facilitate lateral movement within networks, enabling attackers to escalate privileges on other systems or access critical infrastructure. The impact extends to the integrity of business operations, as attackers could modify or delete critical files, install backdoors, or disrupt services. Confidentiality is at high risk due to potential data exfiltration. Availability could also be affected if attackers deploy ransomware or destructive payloads. Organizations relying on macOS for development, design, or administrative tasks are particularly vulnerable. The requirement for local access and user interaction means that social engineering or insider threats could be vectors for exploitation. Given the widespread use of macOS in European enterprises, especially in sectors like finance, technology, and government, the vulnerability could have broad implications if left unpatched.

European organizations should immediately verify the macOS versions deployed across their endpoints and prioritize upgrading to macOS Sequoia 15.6, Sonoma 14.7.7, or Ventura 13.7.7 where the vulnerability is fixed. Implement strict application control policies to limit the installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications, reducing the risk of malicious apps exploiting this flaw. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for suspicious privilege escalation attempts and unusual process behaviors. Conduct user awareness training focused on the risks of executing unknown applications and the importance of verifying software sources. Enforce least privilege principles to minimize the number of users with administrative rights. Use mobile device management (MDM) tools to enforce patch compliance and restrict local administrative privileges where feasible. Regularly audit and monitor system logs for signs of privilege escalation or unauthorized root access attempts. Consider network segmentation to limit the spread of potential compromises originating from macOS devices. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups to enable recovery in case of compromise.