CVE-2025-43474 is a security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS operating systems, specifically addressed in macOS Sonoma 14.8.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.7.2. The flaw stems from an out-of-bounds read condition caused by inadequate input validation within the kernel or a privileged system component. This vulnerability allows a malicious application running on the system to either cause an unexpected system termination (crash) or to read sensitive kernel memory contents. Reading kernel memory can lead to leakage of sensitive information, potentially including cryptographic keys, system data, or other protected information, thereby compromising system confidentiality and integrity. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond app execution but does require the ability to run an app on the target system, which implies that the attacker must have some level of code execution capability or user-level access. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild, indicating that the vulnerability is newly disclosed and may not yet be actively exploited. The root cause is an out-of-bounds read due to insufficient input validation, which Apple has remediated by improving input validation checks in the affected components. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions of macOS prior to the patched releases, so all users running earlier versions should consider themselves at risk. This vulnerability is significant because kernel memory disclosure can facilitate further privilege escalation or bypass security controls, while system termination can disrupt availability. The fix involves updating to the specified macOS versions where the issue has been resolved.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-43474 can be substantial, particularly for those with a significant deployment of Apple macOS devices in their IT environment. The ability of a malicious app to cause system crashes can lead to denial of service conditions, disrupting business operations and potentially causing data loss or downtime. More critically, the ability to read kernel memory can expose sensitive information, including credentials, encryption keys, or other protected data, which can be leveraged for further attacks such as privilege escalation or lateral movement within networks. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that rely on macOS for secure operations could face confidentiality breaches and operational interruptions. Additionally, organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies may see increased risk if unmanaged macOS devices are vulnerable. The absence of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk, but the potential for future exploitation necessitates proactive mitigation. The impact is compounded by the difficulty in detecting kernel memory reads and the potential for attackers to remain stealthy while gathering sensitive information.

To mitigate CVE-2025-43474, European organizations should immediately deploy the security updates provided by Apple, specifically upgrading to macOS Sonoma 14.8.2 or macOS Sequoia 15.7.2 or later. Organizations should enforce strict application control policies, limiting the installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications to reduce the risk of malicious app execution. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for anomalous app behavior and kernel-level anomalies. Regularly audit and restrict user privileges to minimize the ability of apps to execute with elevated rights. Implement network segmentation and zero-trust principles to contain potential compromises. For environments with BYOD policies, ensure devices comply with security standards and are updated promptly. Additionally, monitor security advisories for any emerging exploit reports and be prepared to apply emergency mitigations if needed. Conduct user awareness training to reduce the risk of inadvertent app installation from untrusted sources. Finally, consider deploying kernel integrity monitoring tools to detect unauthorized kernel memory access attempts.