CVE-2025-43368 is a use-after-free vulnerability affecting Apple's Safari browser on iOS and iPadOS platforms. This vulnerability arises from improper memory management when processing maliciously crafted web content, which can lead to an unexpected crash of the Safari browser. A use-after-free flaw occurs when a program continues to use a pointer after the memory it points to has been freed, potentially leading to memory corruption, crashes, or even arbitrary code execution if exploited further. In this case, the vulnerability specifically causes Safari to crash unexpectedly, which disrupts normal browsing activities. Apple has addressed this issue by improving memory management in Safari 26, macOS Tahoe 26, iOS 26, and iPadOS 26. The affected versions prior to these updates are unspecified, but users running older versions of iOS and iPadOS are at risk. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The vulnerability does not require user authentication but does require user interaction in the form of visiting a maliciously crafted web page. The impact is primarily a denial of service (DoS) through browser crashes, but the underlying use-after-free condition could potentially be leveraged for more severe attacks if combined with other vulnerabilities.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-43368 is the potential disruption of business operations due to unexpected Safari crashes on iOS and iPadOS devices. This can affect employees who rely on Apple mobile devices for web-based applications, communications, and remote work. While the immediate consequence is a denial of service, the underlying use-after-free vulnerability could be a stepping stone for more advanced exploitation, potentially leading to data leakage or unauthorized code execution if attackers chain this with other vulnerabilities. Organizations in sectors with high reliance on mobile Apple devices—such as finance, healthcare, and government—may face increased operational risks. Additionally, if attackers weaponize this vulnerability in targeted phishing campaigns or malicious web content, it could lead to broader security incidents. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability's presence in widely used consumer and enterprise devices necessitates prompt attention.

European organizations should prioritize updating all iOS and iPadOS devices to version 26 or later, which contains the fix for this vulnerability. IT departments should enforce mobile device management (MDM) policies that mandate timely OS updates and restrict the use of outdated devices. Additionally, organizations should educate users about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and clicking on suspicious links, as exploitation requires user interaction. Deploying web filtering solutions that block access to known malicious sites can reduce exposure. Monitoring network traffic for unusual patterns associated with exploitation attempts can provide early detection. For critical environments, consider restricting Safari usage or implementing alternative browsers with different rendering engines until patches are applied. Finally, maintain an incident response plan that includes procedures for handling mobile device compromises and denial of service incidents.