CVE-2025-43449 is a privacy vulnerability affecting Apple iOS and iPadOS devices that allows a malicious application to track users persistently across app installs. The root cause is improper handling of caches, which can be exploited to maintain tracking identifiers even after an app is uninstalled and reinstalled. This undermines the expected privacy protections that users rely on when removing apps to erase tracking data. The issue was addressed by Apple in iOS and iPadOS version 26.1, which introduced improved cache management to prevent such persistent tracking. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant privacy risk because it enables malicious actors to correlate user activity over time despite app removal. The attack vector requires the installation of a malicious app, which can then leverage the cache handling flaw to track the user. This vulnerability primarily impacts the confidentiality of user data and privacy, potentially enabling profiling, targeted advertising, or surveillance. The lack of a CVSS score indicates this is a newly published issue, but based on the technical details, it represents a serious privacy concern.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to significant privacy compliance challenges, especially under regulations like the GDPR that emphasize user consent and data minimization. Employees or customers using vulnerable Apple devices may have their activities tracked without consent, leading to potential legal liabilities and reputational damage. Organizations in sectors handling sensitive personal data, such as finance, healthcare, and telecommunications, are particularly at risk. Persistent tracking could also facilitate targeted attacks or social engineering by adversaries who gain insights into user behavior. Additionally, the breach of user trust could impact customer retention and brand reputation. The impact is primarily on confidentiality and privacy, with no direct effect on system availability or integrity.

The primary mitigation is to ensure all Apple iOS and iPadOS devices are updated to version 26.1 or later, where the cache handling flaw has been fixed. Organizations should enforce mobile device management (MDM) policies that mandate timely OS updates and restrict app installations to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store. User education is important to avoid installing untrusted or suspicious apps. Monitoring app permissions and behavior can help detect potentially malicious apps attempting to exploit this vulnerability. For high-risk environments, consider restricting the use of personal devices or implementing additional endpoint security controls. Privacy impact assessments should be updated to reflect this vulnerability and any residual risks after patching. Finally, organizations should stay alert for any emerging exploit reports or updates from Apple.