CVE-2025-43447 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS and other Apple operating systems caused by improper memory handling, specifically a buffer-related issue categorized under CWE-119. This flaw allows a local application with low privileges (PR:L) to trigger unexpected system termination or corrupt kernel memory, potentially leading to system crashes or instability. The vulnerability does not require user interaction (UI:N) and affects system availability (A:H) without impacting confidentiality or integrity. The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning an attacker must have local access to the device to exploit it. The vulnerability was discovered and addressed by Apple with improved memory handling techniques, and patches were released in macOS Tahoe 26.1, iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, watchOS 26.1, and visionOS 26.1. No known exploits are currently active in the wild, reducing immediate risk but underscoring the importance of timely patching. The vulnerability's medium CVSS score of 5.5 reflects moderate severity due to the ease of exploitation by a local attacker and the potential for denial-of-service conditions or kernel memory corruption, which could destabilize affected systems. The lack of impact on confidentiality or integrity limits the scope of damage but does not eliminate operational risks. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for organizations relying on Apple ecosystems, including macOS desktops and laptops, as well as other Apple devices running the affected OS versions.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-43447 is on system availability and operational stability. Exploitation could lead to unexpected system crashes or kernel memory corruption, resulting in downtime or degraded performance of critical macOS-based infrastructure or user endpoints. This could disrupt business operations, especially in sectors relying heavily on Apple hardware such as creative industries, software development, and certain government or educational institutions. Although the vulnerability does not compromise confidentiality or data integrity directly, the resulting denial-of-service conditions could indirectly affect data availability and business continuity. Organizations with strict uptime requirements or those using macOS in sensitive environments may face increased risk. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate threat levels, but the presence of a publicly disclosed vulnerability necessitates proactive patch management to prevent potential exploitation. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as part of a multi-stage attack chain if combined with other exploits, increasing its strategic risk.

European organizations should prioritize deploying the Apple security updates that address CVE-2025-43447, specifically macOS Tahoe 26.1 and corresponding updates for iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and visionOS. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict application control policies to limit installation of untrusted or unsigned apps, reducing the risk of local exploitation. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior indicative of kernel memory corruption or system crashes. Implement robust device management practices using Apple’s MDM (Mobile Device Management) frameworks to ensure timely update deployment and compliance monitoring. Conduct regular system integrity checks and monitor logs for unusual kernel or system termination events. For environments with high security requirements, consider restricting local user privileges further to minimize the attack surface. Educate users about the risks of installing unauthorized applications and maintain an inventory of Apple devices to ensure all are updated promptly. Finally, incorporate this vulnerability into incident response plans to quickly identify and remediate any exploitation attempts.