CVE-2025-43287 is a memory corruption vulnerability in Apple macOS identified as a buffer or memory handling error (CWE-119). The flaw occurs when the operating system processes a maliciously crafted image file, leading to corruption of process memory. This can result in unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information (confidentiality impact) or cause denial of service by crashing critical processes (availability impact). The vulnerability requires local access and user interaction to trigger, but no privileges or authentication are necessary, making it relatively easier to exploit if a user opens or previews a malicious image. The vulnerability was addressed by Apple in macOS Tahoe 26 through improved memory handling mechanisms that prevent the corruption. Although no exploits have been reported in the wild, the CVSS score of 7.1 (high) reflects the significant risk posed by this vulnerability. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions of macOS prior to the Tahoe 26 release, indicating that all earlier versions remain vulnerable until patched. The root cause aligns with classic buffer overflow or improper memory management issues, which are common vectors for exploitation leading to memory corruption and potential code execution or denial of service.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially in sectors where macOS devices are prevalent, such as creative industries, education, and certain government agencies. The confidentiality impact means sensitive data could be exposed if exploited, while the availability impact could disrupt business operations through process crashes or system instability. Since exploitation requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to trick users into opening malicious images. Organizations relying on macOS for critical infrastructure or sensitive data processing must consider this vulnerability a serious threat. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future attacks. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in targeted attacks against high-value European entities using macOS systems.

1. Immediately update all macOS systems to macOS Tahoe 26 or later, as this version contains the fix for CVE-2025-43287. 2. Implement strict policies to limit the opening or previewing of untrusted image files, especially from unknown or suspicious sources. 3. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to image processing or memory corruption attempts. 4. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited images and train them to recognize phishing attempts that could deliver malicious images. 5. Use application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to isolate image processing components, minimizing the impact of potential exploitation. 6. Monitor system logs and behavior for signs of memory corruption or crashes related to image handling processes. 7. Coordinate with IT asset management to identify all macOS devices in the environment and prioritize patch deployment accordingly.