CVE-2025-43321 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS affecting Intel-based systems where an application can bypass protections to access sensitive user data. The root cause involves the ability of unsigned services to launch, which can be exploited by an app to gain unauthorized access to protected data. This vulnerability falls under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control). The flaw does not require privileges or authentication but does require user interaction, such as running the malicious app. The vulnerability was resolved by Apple by blocking unsigned services from launching on Intel Macs, with patches released in macOS Sequoia 15.7, Sonoma 14.8, and Tahoe 26. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium), reflecting local attack vector, low complexity, no privileges required, user interaction required, unchanged scope, and high confidentiality impact. No known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date. The vulnerability primarily threatens confidentiality of user data without affecting integrity or availability.

The vulnerability allows local attackers to access protected user data without requiring privileges or authentication, posing a confidentiality risk. This could lead to exposure of sensitive personal or corporate information, potentially enabling further targeted attacks or privacy violations. Since exploitation requires user interaction and local access, remote exploitation is unlikely, limiting the attack surface. However, in environments where users may run untrusted applications or where physical or remote desktop access is possible, the risk increases. Organizations with Intel-based Macs running unpatched versions are at risk of data leakage, which could impact compliance with data protection regulations and damage trust. The lack of impact on integrity and availability reduces the risk of system disruption but does not diminish the importance of protecting sensitive data.

Organizations should promptly update affected macOS systems to versions Sequoia 15.7, Sonoma 14.8, or Tahoe 26, where the vulnerability is patched. Restrict the installation and execution of unsigned applications and services, especially on Intel Macs, by enforcing strict application whitelisting policies and using Apple’s built-in security features such as Gatekeeper and System Integrity Protection (SIP). Educate users to avoid running untrusted applications and to be cautious with software sources. Employ endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block suspicious local activities. Regularly audit installed software and running services to identify and remove unsigned or unauthorized components. For environments with high security requirements, consider restricting physical and remote access to Intel Macs to trusted personnel only.