CVE-2025-43357 is a vulnerability identified in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS platforms, where an application can fingerprint the user by leveraging insufficient redaction of sensitive information. Fingerprinting here refers to the ability of an app to collect unique device or user-specific data points that can be combined to create a unique identifier for tracking or profiling purposes. The vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization or redaction of sensitive data that apps can access, allowing them to gather information that should otherwise be protected. This issue was addressed by Apple in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 through improved redaction mechanisms that prevent apps from accessing or inferring sensitive user information. The CVSS v3.1 score of 5.5 (medium severity) reflects that the attack vector is local (AV:L), requires low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges (PR:N), but does require user interaction (UI:R). The impact is primarily on confidentiality (C:H), with no impact on integrity or availability. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-359, which relates to exposure of sensitive information due to improper handling. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, indicating limited active exploitation at this time. However, the potential for privacy violations and user tracking remains significant, especially in environments where apps are installed from less controlled sources or where users may be tricked into interaction. The vulnerability affects all versions prior to iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, though exact affected versions are unspecified.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-43357 lies in the compromise of user privacy and confidentiality. Organizations that deploy iOS and iPadOS devices for employees, especially in sectors handling sensitive personal or corporate data (e.g., finance, healthcare, government), face risks of user fingerprinting that could lead to unauthorized tracking or profiling. This can undermine compliance with stringent European data protection regulations such as GDPR, potentially resulting in legal and reputational consequences. Although the vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, the erosion of user privacy can facilitate targeted phishing, social engineering, or surveillance activities. Enterprises relying on mobile device management (MDM) solutions should be aware that apps installed on managed devices could exploit this vulnerability if not patched. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits once the vulnerability details become widely known. The impact is more pronounced in environments with high usage of iOS/iPadOS devices and where user interaction with apps is common.

To mitigate CVE-2025-43357, European organizations should prioritize upgrading all iOS and iPadOS devices to version 26 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. Mobile device management (MDM) solutions should enforce mandatory OS updates and restrict installation of apps from untrusted sources to reduce exposure. Organizations should audit installed applications for those that request excessive permissions or exhibit suspicious behavior related to data access. User awareness training should emphasize caution when interacting with apps, especially those requesting unusual data access or prompting unexpected interactions. Implementing network-level protections such as DNS filtering and app reputation services can help block malicious or fingerprinting-capable apps. Privacy-focused configurations, such as limiting app tracking permissions and using Apple's privacy controls, should be enforced. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing on mobile endpoints can help detect exploitation attempts. Finally, organizations should monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploits targeting this vulnerability to respond promptly.