CVE-2025-43423 is a vulnerability identified in Apple’s macOS and related operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS. The root cause is inadequate redaction of sensitive information in system logs, which can be accessed by an attacker who has physical access to an unlocked device paired with a Mac. This pairing implies that the device is linked via features such as Continuity or Handoff, which allow seamless integration between Apple devices. The vulnerability does not allow remote exploitation and requires the attacker to have physical access to the device while it is unlocked, significantly reducing the attack surface. The issue was addressed by Apple through improved data redaction in system logging, with fixes included in macOS Tahoe 26.1, iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, and visionOS 26.1, among others. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 2.0, reflecting a low severity primarily due to the requirement for physical access (Attack Vector: Physical), high attack complexity, and no privileges or user interaction needed. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-532, which relates to exposure of sensitive information through logs. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, indicating limited active threat but a potential risk if devices are left unlocked and accessible. Organizations relying on Apple ecosystems should prioritize patch deployment and enforce strict physical security controls to mitigate risk.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-43423 is primarily related to confidentiality breaches due to exposure of sensitive user information via system logs. While the vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, unauthorized access to sensitive data could lead to privacy violations, intellectual property exposure, or leakage of credentials or personal information. The requirement for physical access and an unlocked device limits the threat to scenarios involving insider threats, theft, or loss of devices. Organizations with mobile or remote workforces using Apple devices are particularly at risk if devices are not properly secured. In regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, or government within Europe, even low-severity data exposures can have compliance implications under GDPR and other data protection laws. Therefore, the vulnerability could indirectly impact organizational reputation and regulatory standing if exploited. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the need for vigilance.

1. Ensure all Apple devices are updated promptly to the patched OS versions (macOS Tahoe 26.1, iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, visionOS 26.1, etc.) to benefit from improved data redaction. 2. Enforce strict device locking policies requiring automatic screen locks after short inactivity periods and strong authentication methods (e.g., biometrics, strong passcodes). 3. Limit physical access to devices, especially in shared or public environments, through secure storage and access controls. 4. Educate employees about the risks of leaving devices unlocked and the importance of physical security. 5. Disable or restrict device pairing features like Continuity or Handoff where not necessary, to reduce attack surface related to device interconnectivity. 6. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for unusual access to system logs or device pairing events. 7. Regularly audit device configurations and access logs to detect potential misuse or unauthorized access. 8. For highly sensitive environments, consider additional encryption or data protection measures for logs and sensitive data stored on devices.