CVE-2025-43310 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows a local application with limited privileges to trick a user into copying sensitive data to the system pasteboard (clipboard). The root cause is a configuration issue that permitted apps to manipulate clipboard contents without explicit user consent or interaction. This flaw could be exploited by a malicious app to covertly capture or overwrite sensitive information copied by the user, potentially leading to data leakage or integrity compromise. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions of macOS prior to the patched releases, specifically macOS Sonoma 14.8 and macOS Sequoia 15.7, where Apple introduced additional restrictions to prevent such clipboard manipulation. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.4 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is local (AV:L), requires low privileges (PR:L), and does not require user interaction (UI:N), with limited impact on confidentiality and integrity but no impact on availability. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-359 (Exposure of Sensitive Information Through Clipboard). No known exploits have been reported in the wild, indicating limited active exploitation at this time. However, the potential for sensitive data exposure makes it a concern for organizations handling confidential information on macOS devices.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data handled on macOS devices. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology that rely on macOS systems for daily operations could face data leakage if a malicious local app exploits this flaw to access or manipulate clipboard data without user knowledge. The impact is heightened in environments where users frequently copy and paste sensitive credentials, personal data, or proprietary information. Although the vulnerability requires local access and low privileges, it could be leveraged in scenarios involving insider threats or compromised endpoints. The lack of user interaction requirement increases the stealthiness of potential attacks. While availability is not impacted, the breach of confidentiality and integrity could lead to regulatory compliance issues under GDPR and damage organizational reputation. The medium severity score suggests moderate risk but warrants timely patching and monitoring to prevent exploitation.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS systems to versions Sonoma 14.8 or Sequoia 15.7 or later, where the vulnerability is addressed. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict application whitelisting and endpoint protection to prevent installation or execution of untrusted or potentially malicious local applications. User education should emphasize caution when installing new software and awareness of clipboard data sensitivity. Employing Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solutions that monitor clipboard activity can help detect and block unauthorized data exfiltration attempts. Regular audits of installed applications and privilege management can reduce the risk of low-privilege apps exploiting this vulnerability. Additionally, organizations should consider restricting clipboard sharing features in virtual desktop or remote access environments to limit exposure. Monitoring system logs for unusual clipboard access patterns can provide early detection of exploitation attempts. Finally, integrating macOS security updates into organizational patch management workflows ensures timely remediation.