CVE-2025-43277 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Apple macOS and other Apple operating systems including iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS. The vulnerability arises from improper memory handling when processing specially crafted audio files, leading to memory corruption. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-119, which typically involves buffer overflows or similar memory safety issues. Exploitation of this vulnerability requires a user to interact with a malicious audio file, such as opening or playing it. Successful exploitation can result in arbitrary code execution, allowing an attacker to compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high severity level. The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning the attacker must have local access or trick the user into opening the malicious file. No privileges are required (PR:N), but user interaction is necessary (UI:R). The vulnerability affects multiple Apple platforms, with patches released in iOS 18.6, iPadOS 18.6, watchOS 11.6, macOS Sequoia 15.6, tvOS 18.6, and visionOS 2.6. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the potential impact is significant due to the possibility of executing arbitrary code via a crafted audio file. The issue was addressed by Apple through improved memory handling in the affected components.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those relying on Apple hardware and software ecosystems. The ability to execute arbitrary code via a malicious audio file could lead to data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, disruption of business operations, and potential lateral movement within corporate networks. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure, which often use Apple devices for secure communications and operations, could face severe operational and reputational damage if exploited. The requirement for user interaction means that phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver the malicious audio files, increasing the attack surface. Furthermore, the widespread use of Apple devices in European enterprises and among remote workers increases the likelihood of exposure. The vulnerability also threatens the integrity and availability of systems, potentially leading to denial of service or persistent compromise.

European organizations should prioritize patching affected Apple devices by upgrading to the fixed versions: iOS 18.6, iPadOS 18.6, watchOS 11.6, macOS Sequoia 15.6, tvOS 18.6, and visionOS 2.6. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict email and file filtering to detect and block suspicious audio files, especially those from untrusted sources. User awareness training should emphasize the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected audio files, highlighting the potential for exploitation. Endpoint protection solutions should be configured to monitor and alert on abnormal audio file processing behaviors. Network segmentation can limit the impact of a compromised device. Additionally, organizations should enforce the principle of least privilege to reduce the potential damage from a compromised user account. Regular backups and incident response plans should be updated to prepare for potential exploitation scenarios. Monitoring for indicators of compromise related to audio file exploitation should be integrated into security operations.