CVE-2025-43309 is a logic flaw identified in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS platforms that permits an attacker with physical access to a device to view the contents of notifications directly from the Lock Screen. The vulnerability stems from inadequate validation checks that control whether notification content is displayed when the device is locked. This can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information such as messages, emails, calendar events, or other app notifications that appear on the Lock Screen. The issue affects versions prior to iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, where Apple has implemented improved checks to prevent this unauthorized access. Exploitation requires physical possession of the device but does not require bypassing device authentication or unlocking the device, making it a significant privacy concern. Although no public exploits or active attacks have been reported, the vulnerability poses a risk especially in scenarios where devices are lost, stolen, or temporarily accessed by unauthorized individuals. The vulnerability primarily compromises confidentiality, as it exposes potentially sensitive data without altering system integrity or availability. The lack of a CVSS score necessitates an independent severity assessment based on the impact and exploitation conditions. The fix involves updating to the latest OS versions and adjusting notification privacy settings to restrict sensitive content visibility on the Lock Screen. This vulnerability underscores the importance of physical device security and careful configuration of notification settings in mobile device management strategies.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-43309 is the potential leakage of sensitive information through notifications visible on locked iOS and iPadOS devices. This can lead to exposure of confidential business communications, personally identifiable information (PII), or other sensitive data, which may result in privacy violations, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR), and reputational damage. Organizations with mobile workforces relying on Apple devices are particularly vulnerable if devices are lost, stolen, or accessed by unauthorized personnel. The vulnerability does not allow remote exploitation, limiting the attack vector to physical access scenarios, but the ease of viewing notifications without unlocking the device increases the risk of data leakage. This may also facilitate social engineering or follow-up attacks by revealing information about ongoing projects, contacts, or credentials. The impact is heightened in sectors handling sensitive data such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. Additionally, the exposure of notification content could undermine trust in mobile device security and complicate compliance with data protection regulations prevalent in Europe.

To mitigate CVE-2025-43309, European organizations should: 1) Ensure all iOS and iPadOS devices are updated to version 26 or later where the vulnerability is patched. 2) Enforce strict mobile device management (MDM) policies that configure notification settings to hide sensitive content on the Lock Screen, using options like 'Show Previews: When Unlocked' or 'Never'. 3) Educate users on the risks of physical device access and the importance of securing devices with strong passcodes and biometric locks. 4) Implement physical security controls to prevent unauthorized access to devices, especially in high-risk environments. 5) Regularly audit device configurations and compliance with security policies related to notification privacy. 6) Consider deploying endpoint protection solutions that can detect and alert on suspicious physical access or device tampering. 7) Develop incident response plans that address potential data leakage scenarios resulting from lost or stolen devices. These measures collectively reduce the risk of sensitive information exposure through Lock Screen notifications.