CVE-2025-43399 is a security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows an application to access protected user data due to inadequate redaction of sensitive information. The vulnerability arises from flaws in how macOS handles the redaction process, potentially exposing sensitive user data to unauthorized applications. This issue was addressed and fixed in macOS Sequoia 15.7.2 by improving the redaction mechanisms to prevent leakage of protected information. The affected versions are unspecified but include all versions prior to the patch release. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and there are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication. The vulnerability does not require user authentication or interaction, which increases the risk of exploitation by malicious applications installed on the system. The flaw primarily impacts confidentiality, as unauthorized apps could access sensitive user data, potentially leading to privacy violations, data theft, or further exploitation. The vulnerability does not appear to affect system integrity or availability directly but could be leveraged as a stepping stone for more severe attacks. The fix involves updating to macOS Sequoia 15.7.2 or later, which includes improved redaction of sensitive information to block unauthorized access.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality of sensitive user data on macOS devices. Organizations relying on Apple hardware for business operations, especially those handling personal data, intellectual property, or regulated information, could face data breaches if malicious applications exploit this flaw. The exposure of protected user data could lead to privacy violations under GDPR, resulting in regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Additionally, attackers could use the accessed data to facilitate further attacks such as phishing, credential theft, or lateral movement within networks. The lack of required user interaction or authentication lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing the threat level. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using macOS devices are particularly vulnerable, as compromised endpoints could serve as entry points into corporate networks. The impact is primarily on confidentiality, but indirect effects on integrity and availability could arise from subsequent attacks leveraging the exposed data.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to version Sequoia 15.7.2 or later to apply the security fix that improves redaction of sensitive information. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict application control policies to limit the installation and execution of untrusted or unnecessary applications on macOS endpoints. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for anomalous access to sensitive data and unusual application behavior. Conduct regular audits of installed software and permissions to identify potentially malicious or vulnerable applications. Educate users about the risks of installing unverified software and encourage adherence to security best practices. For organizations with sensitive data, consider deploying data loss prevention (DLP) tools tailored for macOS to detect and block unauthorized data access or exfiltration attempts. Finally, maintain robust backup and incident response plans to quickly address any potential data breaches stemming from exploitation of this vulnerability.