CVE-2025-43416 is a logic flaw in Apple macOS that allows an application to bypass existing restrictions and access protected user data. The vulnerability arises from improper enforcement of access controls within the operating system, enabling apps to escalate privileges or circumvent sandboxing mechanisms designed to isolate sensitive information. Apple addressed this issue by improving restriction mechanisms in macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 and macOS Sequoia 15.7.3. The affected versions prior to these patches remain vulnerable, though the exact versions impacted are unspecified. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, indicating that active exploitation is not yet observed. However, the nature of the vulnerability suggests that a malicious or compromised app could silently access confidential user data, potentially including credentials, personal files, or other sensitive information. This vulnerability does not appear to require user interaction beyond app installation, and it may not require elevated privileges if the app can exploit the logic flaw. The absence of a CVSS score limits precise severity quantification, but the potential confidentiality breach and ease of exploitation elevate its risk profile. The vulnerability underscores the importance of strict access control enforcement and the risks posed by logic errors in OS security mechanisms.

For European organizations, this vulnerability threatens the confidentiality of sensitive user data on macOS devices. Organizations in finance, healthcare, legal, and government sectors that rely on macOS systems for daily operations could face data leakage, regulatory compliance violations (e.g., GDPR), and reputational damage if exploited. The ability of an app to access protected data without explicit user consent or awareness increases insider threat risks and supply chain attack vectors, especially if malicious apps are introduced via third-party software or internal development. The impact extends to personal devices used for work (BYOD scenarios), potentially exposing corporate data. While availability and integrity impacts are less direct, unauthorized data access can facilitate further attacks, including privilege escalation or lateral movement within networks. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits given the disclosed vulnerability. Organizations with large macOS user bases are particularly vulnerable, and failure to patch promptly could lead to widespread compromise.

European organizations should immediately prioritize updating all macOS systems to versions Sonoma 14.8.3 or Sequoia 15.7.3 or later to remediate the vulnerability. Beyond patching, organizations should audit installed applications, especially those from untrusted sources, to reduce the risk of malicious apps exploiting this flaw. Implement strict application whitelisting and enforce the principle of least privilege for app permissions. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring unusual app behaviors indicative of unauthorized data access. Educate users about the risks of installing unverified software and enforce policies restricting app installations to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store or enterprise-approved repositories. For organizations using mobile device management (MDM), enforce compliance checks ensuring devices are updated and apps are vetted. Regularly review and tighten macOS privacy and security settings, including sandboxing and data protection configurations. Finally, monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploits related to CVE-2025-43416 to respond swiftly if active exploitation arises.