CVE-2025-43460 is a logic flaw identified in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS operating systems that could allow an attacker with physical access to a locked device to bypass certain security checks and view sensitive user information. The vulnerability stems from inadequate validation or enforcement of access controls when the device is locked, enabling unauthorized data disclosure without requiring the device to be unlocked or the user’s authentication credentials. Apple has addressed this issue by implementing improved logic checks in iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1. The affected versions prior to these releases are vulnerable, though the exact impacted versions are unspecified. There are no reports of active exploitation in the wild, indicating this is a newly disclosed vulnerability. The attack vector requires physical possession of the device, which limits the scope to scenarios such as device theft, loss, or unauthorized physical access in shared or public environments. The vulnerability primarily impacts the confidentiality of user data stored on the device, potentially exposing personal information, credentials, or sensitive application data. The lack of a CVSS score necessitates an assessment based on the impact on confidentiality, ease of exploitation, and scope. Since no authentication or user interaction is needed beyond physical access, and the vulnerability affects widely used Apple mobile operating systems, the risk is significant. Organizations relying on Apple devices for sensitive communications or data storage must prioritize patch deployment and reinforce physical security policies to mitigate this threat.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-43460 is primarily the risk of unauthorized disclosure of sensitive user information if devices are lost, stolen, or accessed without authorization. This can lead to data breaches involving personal data, intellectual property, or confidential communications, potentially violating GDPR and other data protection regulations. The exposure of sensitive information could facilitate further attacks such as identity theft, corporate espionage, or social engineering. The vulnerability affects mobile devices that are commonly used for both personal and professional purposes, increasing the risk surface. Organizations with mobile workforces, especially those in sectors like finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, face heightened risks. The need for physical access limits remote exploitation but does not diminish the threat posed by insider threats or theft. Failure to patch could result in reputational damage, regulatory penalties, and operational disruption if sensitive information is compromised.

1. Immediately update all Apple iOS and iPadOS devices to version 26.1 or later to apply the security fix. 2. Enforce strict physical security controls for mobile devices, including secure storage, device tracking, and policies restricting unauthorized access. 3. Implement mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce encryption, remote wipe capabilities, and compliance monitoring. 4. Educate employees on the importance of device security, including reporting lost or stolen devices promptly. 5. Use strong passcodes and biometric authentication to add layers of protection beyond the lock screen. 6. Limit sensitive data stored locally on devices where possible, favoring secure cloud storage with robust access controls. 7. Regularly audit device access logs and monitor for unusual activity that could indicate unauthorized physical access. 8. Consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting suspicious device interactions. 9. Review and update incident response plans to include scenarios involving physical device compromise. 10. Coordinate with legal and compliance teams to ensure GDPR and other regulatory requirements are met in case of data exposure.