CVE-2025-43455 is a privacy vulnerability identified in Apple macOS and other Apple operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and visionOS, fixed in version 26.1 releases. The flaw allows a malicious application to capture screenshots of sensitive information displayed within embedded views, which are UI components that render content from other apps or processes. The root cause is insufficient validation and permission checks that fail to prevent unauthorized screenshot capture by unprivileged applications. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-200 (Exposure of Sensitive Information to an Unauthorized Actor). Exploitation requires local access to the device and some form of user interaction (UI:R), but no elevated privileges or authentication bypass is necessary. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium severity), reflecting the moderate impact on confidentiality with no impact on integrity or availability. The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning the attacker must have physical or remote access to the device. This vulnerability could be leveraged to exfiltrate sensitive data such as passwords, personal information, or confidential business data displayed in embedded views, posing a privacy risk. Apple addressed the issue by implementing improved permission checks to restrict screenshot capabilities to authorized processes only. No public exploits or active exploitation campaigns have been reported as of now.

For European organizations, this vulnerability primarily threatens the confidentiality of sensitive information displayed on Apple devices. Organizations handling sensitive personal data, intellectual property, or confidential communications on macOS or other Apple platforms are at risk of data leakage if a malicious app is installed. This could lead to privacy violations, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR), reputational damage, and potential financial losses. The requirement for local access and user interaction limits remote exploitation but insider threats or social engineering attacks could facilitate exploitation. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, legal, and government agencies in Europe that rely on Apple devices for secure communications and data handling are particularly vulnerable. The impact is heightened in environments where device usage policies are lax or where users install unvetted applications. Although no known exploits exist currently, the medium severity rating and potential for sensitive data exposure warrant prompt mitigation.

European organizations should immediately update all affected Apple devices to macOS Tahoe 26.1 or later, as well as iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and visionOS 26.1 where applicable. Implement strict application installation policies restricting users from installing untrusted or unsigned apps to reduce the risk of malicious app presence. Employ Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce OS updates and monitor app permissions, especially those related to screen capture capabilities. Educate users about the risks of installing unknown applications and the importance of verifying app permissions. Use endpoint security solutions capable of detecting suspicious app behaviors related to screen capture or unauthorized access to embedded views. Regularly audit devices for unauthorized applications and unusual screenshot activity. For highly sensitive environments, consider disabling screenshot functionality where feasible or using secure workspace/container solutions that isolate sensitive content from other apps. Maintain comprehensive logging and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. Finally, ensure compliance with data protection regulations by documenting mitigation efforts and incident response plans.