CVE-2025-43474 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS stemming from an out-of-bounds read condition due to insufficient input validation. This flaw allows a local application with limited privileges (PR:L) to read kernel memory or cause unexpected system termination (crashes). The vulnerability affects multiple macOS versions prior to the patched releases: Sequoia 15.7.2, Tahoe 26.1, and Sonoma 14.8.2. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.8, indicating high severity, with the vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, meaning the attack requires local access, low attack complexity, low privileges, no user interaction, unchanged scope, and results in high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. The root cause is a CWE-125 (out-of-bounds read), which can lead to reading sensitive kernel memory or crashing the system, potentially enabling privilege escalation or denial of service. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk if exploited. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because kernel memory disclosure can leak sensitive information and system crashes can disrupt critical operations. Apple has addressed the issue by improving input validation in the affected components. Organizations running vulnerable macOS versions should apply the provided patches promptly to mitigate exploitation risks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Apple macOS in enterprise environments, especially in sectors like finance, government, creative industries, and technology. The ability for a local app to read kernel memory compromises confidentiality by potentially exposing sensitive data such as encryption keys, passwords, or other protected information stored in kernel space. Integrity is at risk because the vulnerability could be leveraged to alter system behavior or escalate privileges, undermining trust in system operations. Availability is also affected as the vulnerability can cause unexpected system termination, leading to denial of service conditions that disrupt business continuity. Given the local access requirement, insider threats or compromised endpoints are primary vectors. The lack of user interaction needed increases the risk of automated or stealthy exploitation once local access is obtained. European organizations with macOS endpoints should consider this vulnerability critical to address to maintain compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR, which mandate safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring system reliability.

1. Immediate deployment of Apple’s security updates: macOS Sequoia 15.7.2, Tahoe 26.1, and Sonoma 14.8.2 contain fixes for this vulnerability and should be applied without delay. 2. Restrict installation of applications to trusted sources only, such as the Apple App Store or verified enterprise software, to reduce the risk of malicious local apps exploiting this flaw. 3. Implement endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous local process behavior indicative of attempts to access kernel memory or cause system crashes. 4. Enforce strict access controls and least privilege principles on macOS endpoints to limit the ability of unprivileged users or apps to execute potentially harmful code. 5. Monitor system logs and kernel crash reports for unusual patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. 6. Educate users and administrators on the risks of running untrusted applications and the importance of timely patching. 7. Consider network segmentation and endpoint isolation strategies to contain potential local exploits. 8. Regularly audit macOS systems for compliance with security policies and patch levels.