CVE-2025-43529 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 that exists in the memory management of Apple iOS and iPadOS when processing web content. This flaw allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code by crafting malicious web content that triggers the use-after-free condition, leading to memory corruption. The vulnerability is exploitable remotely over the network without requiring privileges but does require user interaction, such as visiting a malicious or compromised website. Apple has released fixes in iOS 26.2, iPadOS 26.2, watchOS 26.2, Safari 26.2, macOS Tahoe 26.2, visionOS 26.2, and tvOS 26.2, which improve memory management to prevent the use-after-free condition. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.8, indicating high severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction required, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Apple has acknowledged reports of this vulnerability being exploited in highly sophisticated targeted attacks against specific individuals on versions prior to iOS 26, highlighting its real-world risk. The vulnerability is related to CVE-2025-14174, which was issued in response to the same attack report. Although no broad exploitation is currently known, the potential for targeted espionage or data theft is significant given the nature of the flaw and affected platforms.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-43529 is substantial due to the widespread use of Apple mobile devices in both enterprise and government sectors. Successful exploitation can lead to complete compromise of affected devices, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, steal sensitive data, install persistent malware, or disrupt device availability. This poses a direct threat to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of corporate and personal information. Targeted attacks could focus on high-value individuals such as executives, diplomats, or critical infrastructure operators, potentially leading to espionage or sabotage. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to lure victims to malicious web content. The vulnerability also affects other Apple platforms like Safari and macOS, broadening the attack surface. Failure to patch promptly could result in significant operational and reputational damage, regulatory penalties under GDPR, and loss of trust.

European organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of the security updates released by Apple for iOS 26.2, iPadOS 26.2, and related platforms to remediate this vulnerability. Network-level protections such as web content filtering and blocking access to known malicious or suspicious websites can reduce exposure. Implementing strict mobile device management (MDM) policies to enforce OS updates and restrict installation of untrusted apps is critical. User awareness training should emphasize the risks of interacting with unknown links or websites, especially in spear-phishing contexts. Organizations should monitor network traffic for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts. Employing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting memory corruption or anomalous process behavior on Apple devices can provide early warning. For highly sensitive environments, consider restricting web browsing capabilities or using secure browsing proxies that sanitize web content. Incident response plans should be updated to include this vulnerability and potential exploitation scenarios. Collaboration with Apple support and threat intelligence sharing within European cybersecurity communities will enhance situational awareness.