CVE-2025-43446 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS stemming from improper validation of symbolic links (CWE-59), which allows an application with limited privileges (PR:L) to modify protected parts of the file system. The vulnerability does not require user interaction (UI:N) and has a low attack complexity (AC:L), but it requires local access (AV:L). The scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the impact is confined to the vulnerable component. The primary impact is on integrity (I:H), as an attacker can alter protected files or directories, potentially enabling persistence mechanisms or privilege escalation. Confidentiality and availability are not directly impacted. The vulnerability affects multiple macOS versions prior to the patched releases: Sequoia 15.7.2, Tahoe 26.1, and Sonoma 14.8.2. Apple addressed the issue by improving symlink validation to prevent unauthorized file system modifications. No public exploits have been reported, but the vulnerability presents a risk if an attacker gains local access to a system and can run a malicious app. This flaw is particularly concerning in environments where users have the ability to install or run untrusted applications. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5, reflecting medium severity due to the combination of local attack vector and high integrity impact.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized modification of critical system files on macOS devices. Such modifications can enable attackers to establish persistence, escalate privileges, or tamper with security controls, potentially undermining endpoint security. Organizations with macOS endpoints in sensitive roles—such as software development, research, or critical infrastructure—may face increased risk if attackers exploit this flaw to gain deeper system access. Although exploitation requires local access and limited privileges, insider threats or malware that gains foothold on a device could leverage this vulnerability to compromise system integrity. The lack of impact on confidentiality and availability reduces the risk of data leakage or service disruption, but integrity compromises can still lead to significant operational and security consequences. The absence of known exploits in the wild suggests a window of opportunity for proactive patching. Failure to address this vulnerability could lead to targeted attacks against European enterprises relying on macOS, especially in sectors with high-value intellectual property or regulatory requirements for system integrity.

European organizations should prioritize deploying the security updates macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, Tahoe 26.1, and Sonoma 14.8.2 or later to all affected devices to remediate this vulnerability. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict application control policies to limit the installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications, reducing the risk of local exploitation. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring suspicious file system modifications and symlink manipulations. Implement least privilege principles to restrict user permissions and prevent unnecessary local access that could be leveraged by attackers. Regularly audit macOS endpoints for unauthorized changes to protected file system areas. Educate users about the risks of running untrusted software and the importance of reporting suspicious activity. For environments with high security requirements, consider additional hardening measures such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) enforcement and restricting developer mode or debugging tools that could facilitate exploitation.