CVE-2025-43345 is a security vulnerability identified in Apple’s macOS and other related operating systems such as tvOS, watchOS, iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS. The root cause is a correctness issue in the operating system’s handling of app permissions or data access controls, which could allow a malicious or compromised app to bypass intended restrictions and access sensitive user data. Apple addressed this vulnerability by implementing improved checks to validate app behavior and data access requests, thereby preventing unauthorized access. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Apple’s OS, including macOS Sonoma 14.8, macOS Sequoia 15.7, and the latest iterations of iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, watchOS, and visionOS. No specific affected versions are detailed, but the broad range of patched OS versions indicates a systemic issue across Apple’s ecosystem. There are currently no known exploits in the wild, suggesting the vulnerability was responsibly disclosed and patched before active exploitation. However, the potential impact remains significant because sensitive user data could be exposed if an attacker successfully exploits the flaw. The lack of a CVSS score means severity must be inferred from the nature of the vulnerability: unauthorized access to sensitive data without requiring user interaction or authentication implies a high risk. This vulnerability highlights the importance of applying timely patches across all Apple devices to mitigate potential data breaches.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-43345 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive user data through compromised or malicious applications on Apple devices. This could lead to breaches of personal data, intellectual property, or confidential business information, undermining privacy and compliance with regulations such as GDPR. Organizations relying heavily on Apple hardware and software for business operations, communication, or development are at increased risk. The vulnerability could facilitate insider threats or external attackers gaining footholds via compromised apps. Data confidentiality is the most affected security property, while integrity and availability impacts are less direct but possible if sensitive data manipulation or denial of service occurs as a secondary effect. The absence of required user interaction or authentication lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing risk. The broad range of affected Apple platforms means that organizations with diverse Apple device deployments must ensure comprehensive patch management. Failure to patch could result in reputational damage, regulatory penalties, and operational disruptions if sensitive data is leaked or misused.

European organizations should implement a targeted patch management strategy to ensure all Apple devices, including macOS desktops and laptops, iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, Apple TVs, and visionOS devices, are updated to the fixed OS versions (e.g., macOS Sonoma 14.8, macOS Sequoia 15.7, iOS 26, iPadOS 26, etc.) as soon as possible. IT teams should inventory all Apple devices to identify those running vulnerable OS versions and prioritize patch deployment accordingly. Employ Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce update policies and monitor compliance. Restrict app installation to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store and implement application whitelisting where feasible to reduce the risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. Conduct user awareness training to recognize suspicious app behavior despite the lack of required user interaction for exploitation. Monitor system logs and network traffic for unusual access patterns or data exfiltration attempts. Coordinate with Apple support and subscribe to security advisories to stay informed about any emerging exploit reports or additional patches. Finally, review and enhance data protection controls, including encryption and access management, to limit the impact of any potential data exposure.