CVE-2025-43445 is a security vulnerability identified in Apple’s macOS and other Apple operating systems, including visionOS, watchOS, iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS. The root cause is an out-of-bounds read error triggered by processing a maliciously crafted media file. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation when handling media content, which can lead to unexpected application termination or corruption of process memory. Such memory corruption can potentially be leveraged for more severe attacks like arbitrary code execution, although no such exploits have been reported to date. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple OS versions prior to the patched releases: visionOS 26.1, macOS Sonoma 14.8.2, macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, watchOS 26.1, iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and tvOS 26.1. Exploitation requires a user to open or process a malicious media file, meaning user interaction is necessary, but no authentication is required. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed in November 2025, with Apple releasing patches to improve input validation and prevent out-of-bounds reads. While no active exploitation has been observed, the nature of the vulnerability poses risks of denial of service through app crashes and potential memory corruption that could be escalated in future attacks. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability to varying degrees, primarily availability and integrity due to process crashes and memory corruption. The broad range of affected Apple platforms increases the scope of impact, especially in environments heavily reliant on Apple hardware and software.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-43445 can be significant, particularly for those with extensive use of Apple products across desktops, laptops, mobile devices, and IoT devices like Apple TV and Apple Watch. The vulnerability could lead to denial of service conditions if critical applications crash unexpectedly when processing malicious media files, disrupting business operations. Memory corruption could also open avenues for privilege escalation or code execution, potentially compromising sensitive data or system integrity. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that rely on Apple ecosystems for secure communications and operations are at heightened risk. Additionally, organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies may face increased exposure as employees’ personal Apple devices could be targeted to gain a foothold in corporate networks. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits post-disclosure. The wide range of affected Apple OS versions means that unpatched devices across European enterprises and public sector entities remain vulnerable, increasing the attack surface. The impact is compounded by the fact that user interaction is required, which could be exploited via phishing or social engineering campaigns targeting European users.

European organizations should implement a multi-layered mitigation strategy beyond simply applying patches. First and foremost, ensure all Apple devices are promptly updated to the fixed versions: macOS Sonoma 14.8.2, macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, visionOS 26.1, watchOS 26.1, iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and tvOS 26.1. Deploy endpoint management solutions to enforce patch compliance and monitor for outdated devices. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious media files, emphasizing caution with email attachments, messaging apps, and web downloads. Implement network-level controls to scan and block malicious media files before they reach end-user devices, using advanced threat detection tools capable of inspecting media content. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential crashes or memory corruption. Monitor system logs and application behavior for signs of crashes or anomalous activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. For organizations with BYOD policies, enforce security baselines and restrict access from non-compliant devices. Finally, maintain an incident response plan that includes procedures for handling suspected exploitation of media processing vulnerabilities.