CVE-2025-43286 is a sandbox escape vulnerability in Apple macOS identified as a permissions issue that allows an application to break out of its restricted sandbox environment. Sandboxing is a core security mechanism in macOS designed to isolate applications and limit their access to system resources and user data. This vulnerability undermines that isolation by permitting an app with limited privileges to escalate its permissions beyond the sandbox constraints. The flaw affects macOS versions prior to Sequoia 15.7, Sonoma 14.8, and Tahoe 26, with Apple having addressed the issue by introducing additional restrictions in these updates. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-862, which relates to improper authorization, indicating that the sandbox enforcement mechanism failed to correctly verify permissions before granting access. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, with vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, meaning the attack requires local access with low complexity and privileges, no user interaction, and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a high level. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the potential for privilege escalation and system compromise is significant. This vulnerability could be leveraged by malicious local users or malware to bypass sandbox restrictions, access sensitive data, modify system components, or disrupt system operations.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious risk, especially those relying on macOS for critical operations, including government agencies, creative industries, and enterprises with macOS-based development environments. The ability for an app to escape the sandbox can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, installation of persistent malware, and disruption of services. Confidentiality is at high risk as sandbox escape can expose user data and system secrets. Integrity is compromised since attackers can modify system files or application data. Availability may also be affected if attackers disrupt system processes or deploy destructive payloads. The local attack vector means that insider threats or malware that gains initial foothold with limited privileges can escalate their control. Given the high adoption of macOS in several European countries, the threat could impact a broad range of organizations, increasing the risk of data breaches, intellectual property theft, and operational downtime.

European organizations should immediately prioritize updating all affected macOS systems to versions Sequoia 15.7, Sonoma 14.8, or Tahoe 26 where the vulnerability is patched. Beyond patching, implement strict application whitelisting and sandbox monitoring to detect anomalous behavior indicative of sandbox escape attempts. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring privilege escalation and unauthorized access patterns. Restrict local user privileges to the minimum necessary and audit local accounts regularly to reduce the risk of exploitation. Use macOS security features such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and ensure they are enabled and properly configured. Conduct regular security awareness training to mitigate risks from insider threats. For organizations with sensitive data, consider deploying additional host-based intrusion prevention systems (HIPS) that can block suspicious sandbox escape techniques. Finally, maintain robust logging and monitoring to quickly identify and respond to any exploitation attempts.