CVE-2025-43315 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows an application to access user-sensitive data improperly due to insufficient access control (CWE-284). The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), meaning the user must perform some action such as launching or interacting with the app. The attack vector is local (AV:L), so an attacker must have local access to the machine. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality (C:H) but does not affect integrity or availability. This suggests that while data leakage is possible, system stability and data modification are not directly threatened. Apple addressed this issue by removing the vulnerable code in macOS Sonoma 14.8 and macOS Sequoia 15.7, indicating that earlier versions remain vulnerable. There are no known exploits in the wild, which reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat. The CVSS score of 5.5 (medium) reflects moderate severity due to the combination of local access and required user interaction, balanced against the high confidentiality impact. The vulnerability likely involves a flaw in how macOS enforces access control policies for apps accessing sensitive user data, potentially allowing malicious or compromised apps to bypass restrictions and read data they should not access. This could include personal files, credentials, or other sensitive information stored or accessible on the device.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a moderate risk primarily to confidentiality of sensitive user data on macOS devices. Organizations with employees using vulnerable macOS versions may face data leakage risks if malicious or compromised applications gain local access and trick users into interaction. This could lead to exposure of personal data, intellectual property, or credentials, potentially facilitating further attacks or compliance violations under GDPR. The impact is heightened in sectors handling sensitive information such as finance, healthcare, and government. However, the requirement for local access and user interaction limits large-scale remote exploitation, reducing the likelihood of widespread automated attacks. Still, targeted attacks or insider threats could exploit this vulnerability. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently lowers immediate threat but vigilance is necessary. Organizations relying heavily on Apple ecosystems for endpoint devices should consider this a priority patching candidate to maintain data confidentiality and regulatory compliance.

1. Apply patches promptly: Upgrade all macOS devices to Sonoma 14.8 or Sequoia 15.7 or later to remove the vulnerable code. 2. Restrict app installation sources: Enforce policies to allow only trusted and vetted applications from the Mac App Store or enterprise-signed apps to reduce risk of malicious apps. 3. User awareness training: Educate users about the risks of interacting with unknown or suspicious applications, emphasizing the need to avoid running untrusted software. 4. Endpoint protection: Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for unusual local app behaviors or attempts to access sensitive data. 5. Access controls: Implement strict user privilege management to limit local access where possible, reducing the attack surface. 6. Monitor logs: Regularly review system and application logs for signs of unauthorized data access attempts. 7. Incident response readiness: Prepare to respond quickly to any detected exploitation attempts or suspicious activity related to this vulnerability.