CVE-2025-43291 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS operating systems, specifically addressed in macOS Sequoia 15.7, macOS Sonoma 14.8, and macOS Tahoe 26. The core issue is a permissions flaw that allowed an application to modify protected parts of the file system. Such protected areas typically include system files and directories that are critical for the operating system's integrity and security. By exploiting this vulnerability, a malicious app could potentially alter system files, leading to unauthorized code execution, persistence mechanisms, or disabling of security controls. The vulnerability was mitigated by Apple through the removal of the vulnerable code segment responsible for the permissions issue. No specific affected versions were detailed beyond the fixed versions, and there are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication. The lack of a CVSS score indicates that the vulnerability is newly disclosed and not yet fully assessed in terms of severity. However, the ability for an app to modify protected file system areas is a significant security concern, as it undermines the fundamental security model of macOS, which relies on strict access controls to protect system integrity.

For European organizations using macOS devices, this vulnerability poses a considerable risk. If exploited, attackers could gain the ability to alter system files, potentially leading to system compromise, data breaches, or disruption of services. This could affect organizations relying on macOS for critical business functions, including sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies, where data integrity and system availability are paramount. The modification of protected file system areas could facilitate the installation of persistent malware, bypass security mechanisms, or cause system instability, impacting operational continuity. Given the widespread use of macOS in certain professional environments across Europe, exploitation could lead to significant confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. Additionally, the absence of known exploits currently suggests a window of opportunity for organizations to patch and mitigate before active exploitation occurs.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to the fixed versions: macOS Sequoia 15.7, macOS Sonoma 14.8, or macOS Tahoe 26. Immediate patch management processes should be enforced to ensure timely deployment of these updates. Beyond patching, organizations should implement application whitelisting to restrict the execution of unauthorized or untrusted applications, reducing the risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. Employing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions can help monitor for unusual file system modifications indicative of exploitation attempts. Additionally, enforcing the principle of least privilege for user accounts and applications can limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs. Regular system integrity checks and file system monitoring can detect unauthorized changes to protected areas. Finally, user awareness training should emphasize the risks of installing untrusted applications, as exploitation requires an app to be present on the system.