CVE-2025-43378 is a security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS, specifically related to a permissions issue that allows applications to access sensitive user data improperly. The root cause is insufficient enforcement of permission restrictions, which could enable a malicious or compromised app to bypass normal access controls and read data that should be protected. Apple has addressed this vulnerability in the macOS Sequoia 15.7.2 update by introducing additional restrictions on app permissions, thereby closing the gap that allowed unauthorized data access. The affected versions of macOS are not explicitly specified, but the vulnerability is relevant to versions prior to 15.7.2. There are currently no known exploits actively targeting this vulnerability in the wild, which suggests that attackers have not yet weaponized this issue or that it has been discovered proactively. However, the potential for exploitation remains, especially in environments where users may install untrusted software. The vulnerability primarily impacts the confidentiality of user data, as unauthorized access could lead to exposure of personal or sensitive information. The lack of a CVSS score requires an assessment based on the nature of the vulnerability: it affects confidentiality significantly, requires no authentication, and can be exploited by any app running on the system, making it relatively easy to exploit. The scope is limited to macOS systems, but given Apple's market penetration in certain European countries, the impact could be substantial. The fix involves updating to the patched macOS version and ensuring that app permissions are tightly controlled to prevent unauthorized data access.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to user privacy and data confidentiality, particularly in sectors where sensitive information is handled on macOS devices, such as finance, healthcare, and government. Unauthorized access to sensitive user data could lead to data breaches, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations), and reputational damage. Organizations relying on macOS for critical operations may face operational risks if sensitive data is exposed or manipulated. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the potential for future exploitation necessitates proactive mitigation. Additionally, organizations with bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies or less controlled software installation environments are at higher risk. The vulnerability could also impact endpoint security posture, requiring enhanced monitoring for suspicious app behavior. Overall, the impact is primarily on confidentiality but could extend to integrity if sensitive data is altered or used maliciously.

1. Immediately update all macOS systems to version Sequoia 15.7.2 or later to apply the security patch that addresses this vulnerability. 2. Implement strict application whitelisting and restrict installation of untrusted or unnecessary applications to reduce the attack surface. 3. Review and tighten app permission settings using macOS privacy controls to limit access to sensitive data only to trusted applications. 4. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring unusual app behavior or unauthorized data access attempts. 5. Conduct user awareness training to discourage installation of unverified software and promote security best practices. 6. For organizations with BYOD policies, enforce compliance checks ensuring devices are updated and adhere to security standards before network access. 7. Regularly audit macOS devices for compliance with security policies and verify that no unauthorized apps have elevated permissions. 8. Consider network segmentation to isolate macOS devices handling sensitive data from less secure parts of the network. 9. Monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence sources for any emerging exploit activity related to this vulnerability.