CVE-2025-43382 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that stems from improper handling of directory paths due to insufficient path validation, classified under CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory). This flaw allows a local application with limited privileges (PR:L) to potentially access sensitive user data by exploiting the parsing issue in directory path handling. The vulnerability does not require user interaction (UI:N) and affects confidentiality (C:H) but does not impact integrity or availability. The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning an attacker must have some level of access to the system, but the access requirements are low complexity (AC:L). The vulnerability affects multiple macOS versions prior to the patched releases: macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, macOS Tahoe 26.1, and macOS Sonoma 14.8.2. Apple addressed the issue by improving path validation mechanisms to prevent unauthorized directory traversal or access. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the medium CVSS score of 5.5 reflects the moderate risk posed by this vulnerability. The flaw could be leveraged by malicious local apps or attackers who gain limited access to the system to bypass normal access controls and read sensitive files or data belonging to the user. This vulnerability highlights the importance of robust path validation in operating system components that handle file system operations.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-43382 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive user data on macOS systems. This could include personal information, credentials, or proprietary business data, depending on what files are accessible through the exploited path parsing flaw. Confidentiality breaches could lead to data privacy violations, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR), reputational damage, and potential financial losses. Since exploitation requires local access with limited privileges, the threat is more significant in environments where endpoint security is weak or where users may inadvertently install malicious applications. Organizations with macOS endpoints in sectors such as finance, healthcare, legal, and government are particularly at risk due to the sensitivity of their data. The vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, so it is less likely to cause system downtime or data tampering. However, the ability to access sensitive data without proper authorization undermines trust in endpoint security and could serve as a stepping stone for further attacks if combined with other vulnerabilities or social engineering techniques.

European organizations should immediately verify that all macOS devices are updated to the patched versions: macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, macOS Tahoe 26.1, or macOS Sonoma 14.8.2. Patch management processes must prioritize these updates to close the vulnerability. Additionally, organizations should audit installed applications and restrict the installation of untrusted or unsigned apps to reduce the risk of local exploitation. Implementing endpoint protection solutions that monitor for suspicious local activity and privilege escalation attempts can help detect exploitation attempts. Employing strict user privilege management and limiting local user rights can reduce the attack surface. Regularly reviewing file system permissions and access controls on sensitive directories can prevent unauthorized data access. Security awareness training should inform users about the risks of installing unknown software. Finally, organizations should monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence sources for any emerging exploit activity related to this vulnerability.