CVE-2025-43446 is a security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows an application to modify protected parts of the file system by exploiting inadequate validation of symbolic links (symlinks). Symlinks are filesystem objects that point to other files or directories, and improper validation can enable an attacker to redirect file operations to sensitive system locations. This vulnerability arises when an app, potentially with limited privileges, can create or manipulate symlinks in a way that bypasses macOS's protections, thereby gaining unauthorized write access to critical system files or directories. Apple addressed this issue by enhancing the validation mechanisms for symlinks in macOS Sonoma 14.8.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, ensuring that apps cannot exploit symlink manipulation to alter protected filesystem areas. The affected versions are unspecified but include all versions prior to these patches. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the potential for privilege escalation and system compromise. The lack of a CVSS score means severity must be assessed based on impact and exploitability factors. Given that the vulnerability allows modification of protected filesystem parts without requiring user interaction or authentication, it represents a serious threat to system integrity and security.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized modification of critical system files on macOS devices, potentially resulting in system instability, data corruption, or the installation of persistent malware. Organizations relying on macOS for business-critical operations, including government agencies, financial institutions, and technology companies, may face increased risk of targeted attacks exploiting this flaw. The ability to modify protected filesystem areas could facilitate privilege escalation, allowing attackers to gain higher-level access and bypass security controls. This could compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data and systems. Additionally, unpatched systems could serve as entry points for lateral movement within networks. The absence of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability’s nature makes it a high-value target for attackers once exploit code becomes available. European organizations with large macOS deployments or mixed OS environments should prioritize patching to mitigate potential impacts.

European organizations should immediately update all macOS devices to at least macOS Sonoma 14.8.2 or macOS Sequoia 15.7.2 to remediate this vulnerability. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict application control policies to limit the installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications that could attempt to exploit symlink vulnerabilities. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring unusual filesystem activities, such as unexpected symlink creation or modification attempts in protected directories. Regularly audit system integrity using file integrity monitoring tools to detect unauthorized changes to critical system files. Network segmentation can limit the spread of an attacker who gains access via this vulnerability. Additionally, educate users about the risks of installing unverified applications and enforce least privilege principles to reduce the potential impact of compromised user accounts. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups to enable recovery in case of system compromise.