CVE-2025-43262 addresses a permissions vulnerability in Apple macOS related to USB Restricted Mode, a security feature intended to limit USB accessory access to the system to prevent unauthorized data exfiltration or device manipulation. The issue arises because USB Restricted Mode may not be applied to USB accessories connected during the system boot process, allowing such devices to bypass the intended restrictions. This flaw is classified under CWE-358 (Improperly Protected Storage of Credentials or Security-Related Information) and was fixed in the macOS Tahoe 26 update. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 5.1, indicating medium severity, with an attack vector of local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction needed (UI:N). The impact affects confidentiality and integrity at a low level, with no availability impact. Since exploitation requires physical or local access to connect a USB device during boot, remote exploitation is not feasible. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers with physical access to bypass USB security controls, potentially leading to unauthorized data access or device compromise. The patch is included in macOS Tahoe 26, and users are advised to update promptly.

The vulnerability primarily impacts the confidentiality and integrity of data on macOS devices by allowing unauthorized USB accessories connected during boot to bypass USB Restricted Mode protections. This could enable attackers with physical access to introduce malicious USB devices that may extract sensitive information or manipulate system behavior. Although the attack requires local access and connection during boot, it poses a risk in environments where physical security is limited, such as shared workspaces or public access areas. The lack of availability impact reduces the risk of denial-of-service conditions. Organizations relying on macOS devices for sensitive operations could face data leakage or compromise if this vulnerability is exploited. However, the medium severity and requirement for physical access limit the overall threat scope compared to remote vulnerabilities.

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should ensure all macOS devices are updated to macOS Tahoe 26 or later, where the issue is fixed. Physical security controls should be strengthened to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing devices during boot, including securing devices in locked environments and using BIOS or firmware passwords to restrict boot options. Additionally, organizations can implement endpoint security solutions that monitor USB device connections and enforce policies restricting unauthorized USB accessories. Disabling boot from external devices in system firmware settings can further reduce risk. Regular security audits and user training on physical security best practices will also help mitigate exploitation opportunities. Since no known exploits exist, proactive patching and physical security remain the most effective defenses.