CVE-2025-43367 is a privacy vulnerability identified in Apple's macOS operating system, specifically addressed in macOS Sonoma 14.8 and macOS Tahoe 26. The core issue involves an application potentially being able to access protected user data that should otherwise be inaccessible due to system-enforced privacy controls. The vulnerability was mitigated by Apple through relocating sensitive data, implying that the original data storage or access control mechanisms were insufficient to prevent unauthorized access by apps. Although the exact technical mechanism of exploitation is not detailed, the vulnerability suggests a flaw in the macOS sandboxing or permission enforcement model that could allow an app to bypass restrictions and read sensitive user information. No specific affected versions are listed beyond the fixed releases, and there are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication. The absence of a CVSS score indicates that the vulnerability is newly disclosed and has not yet been fully evaluated for severity. However, the potential for unauthorized access to protected user data represents a significant privacy risk. This vulnerability highlights the importance of strict data compartmentalization and access controls within macOS to prevent apps from overreaching their privileges.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-43367 could be substantial, particularly for those handling sensitive personal data subject to stringent regulations such as the GDPR. Unauthorized access to protected user data by malicious or compromised applications could lead to data breaches, resulting in loss of confidentiality and potential regulatory penalties. Organizations relying on macOS devices for processing or storing sensitive information may face risks of data leakage, undermining user trust and exposing them to compliance violations. The privacy nature of the vulnerability means that personal identifiable information (PII), credentials, or other confidential data could be exposed. Although no active exploitation is reported, the potential for future attacks exists, especially if threat actors develop techniques to exploit this flaw. This could affect sectors such as finance, healthcare, legal, and government agencies in Europe that use macOS systems extensively. Additionally, the reputational damage and operational disruptions caused by such a breach could be significant.

European organizations should prioritize updating affected macOS systems to versions Sonoma 14.8 or Tahoe 26 or later, where the vulnerability has been addressed by Apple. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict application control policies, including the use of Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to restrict installation of untrusted or unnecessary applications. Employing endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of monitoring unusual app behaviors can help detect attempts to access protected data. Regular audits of app permissions and user data access logs should be conducted to identify anomalies. Organizations should also educate users about the risks of installing unverified software and enforce least privilege principles. For highly sensitive environments, consider isolating macOS devices or limiting their use for critical data processing until patches are applied. Finally, maintaining robust backup and incident response plans will help mitigate damage if exploitation occurs.