CVE-2025-43422 is a security vulnerability identified in Apple iOS and iPadOS operating systems that allows an attacker who gains physical access to a device to disable the Stolen Device Protection feature. This feature is designed to prevent unauthorized access and use of a device if it is lost or stolen, typically by enforcing activation lock mechanisms that require the owner's Apple ID credentials to reactivate the device. The vulnerability arises from insufficient logic checks in the implementation of this protection, which an attacker can exploit to bypass or disable the protection without needing the device owner's authentication. Apple addressed this issue in iOS and iPadOS version 26.1 by adding additional logic to prevent such bypasses. The affected versions are unspecified but include all versions prior to 26.1. There are no known exploits reported in the wild as of the publication date. The vulnerability requires physical access to the device, meaning remote exploitation is not possible. However, once physical access is obtained, an attacker can effectively neutralize a key security control designed to protect device data and prevent unauthorized use after theft. This vulnerability impacts the confidentiality and integrity of data stored on the device and may facilitate further attacks or data exfiltration by malicious actors. Since the vulnerability does not require user interaction or authentication beyond physical access, it is relatively straightforward to exploit in scenarios where devices are lost, stolen, or temporarily accessible to unauthorized individuals.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to the security of Apple devices used within their infrastructure, especially in sectors handling sensitive or regulated data such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. If an attacker can disable Stolen Device Protection, they can gain unauthorized access to corporate data, potentially leading to data breaches, intellectual property theft, or further compromise of enterprise networks. The loss of device integrity undermines trust in endpoint security and may result in regulatory non-compliance under GDPR and other data protection laws due to inadequate protection of personal and sensitive data. Additionally, organizations with mobile workforces or those relying heavily on Apple devices for secure communications and operations are particularly vulnerable. The ease of exploitation with physical access means that lost or stolen devices are at high risk, emphasizing the need for robust physical security and rapid incident response. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not diminish the urgency of patching, as threat actors may develop exploits once the vulnerability is publicly known.

European organizations should immediately plan and execute upgrades to iOS and iPadOS version 26.1 or later on all Apple devices to ensure the vulnerability is patched. Device management policies should enforce mandatory OS updates and restrict the use of outdated versions. Implement strict physical security controls to limit unauthorized physical access to devices, including secure storage, access logs, and employee training on device handling. Utilize Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to monitor device compliance and remotely lock or wipe devices suspected of being compromised or lost. Enhance incident response procedures to quickly identify and respond to lost or stolen devices, including rapid revocation of credentials and network access. Consider additional endpoint security solutions that provide tamper detection and alerting for physical device access attempts. Regularly audit device inventory and security posture to ensure compliance with organizational policies. Finally, educate users about the risks of physical device loss and the importance of reporting incidents promptly.