CVE-2025-43474 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS caused by an out-of-bounds read condition, which arises from inadequate input validation in kernel-level code. This flaw allows a local application with limited privileges (low authentication requirements) to read kernel memory beyond intended boundaries or cause unexpected system termination, such as kernel panics or crashes. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-125, indicating a classic out-of-bounds read error that can lead to information disclosure and denial of service. The affected macOS versions are unspecified but are addressed in macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, Tahoe 26.1, and Sonoma 14.8.2, where Apple improved input validation to mitigate this issue. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the combination of local attack vector, low attack complexity, low privileges required, no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no public exploits have been reported, the ability to read kernel memory can facilitate privilege escalation or leak sensitive data, while causing system crashes can disrupt availability. This vulnerability underscores the importance of robust input validation in kernel components to prevent memory safety errors.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-43474 is the potential for local attackers to compromise system confidentiality by reading sensitive kernel memory, which may contain critical information such as cryptographic keys, passwords, or system internals. Additionally, attackers can cause system instability or denial of service by triggering unexpected system termination, impacting availability. The integrity of the system could also be at risk if kernel memory disclosure leads to privilege escalation or further exploitation. For organizations, this vulnerability could result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of critical services, and increased risk of lateral movement within networks. Environments relying heavily on macOS for sensitive operations, including enterprises, government agencies, and developers, face heightened risk. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate the risk of future weaponization. Failure to patch could expose organizations to targeted attacks or insider threats leveraging this vulnerability.

Organizations should prioritize updating affected macOS systems to the patched versions: macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, Tahoe 26.1, or Sonoma 14.8.2, which include improved input validation to fix the out-of-bounds read. Until patches are applied, restrict local user privileges to minimize the risk of exploitation by limiting access to untrusted applications or scripts. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior indicative of kernel memory access attempts or system crashes. Conduct regular audits of installed software to identify and remove unnecessary or potentially malicious applications. Implement strict application whitelisting and sandboxing to reduce the attack surface. Monitor system logs for unusual kernel panics or crashes that may indicate exploitation attempts. Educate users about the risks of running untrusted local applications. For high-security environments, consider isolating macOS systems or using virtualization to contain potential impacts.