CVE-2025-43533 is a memory corruption vulnerability in Apple tvOS and other Apple operating systems (watchOS, iOS, iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, visionOS) that arises from inadequate input validation of data received from Human Interface Devices (HIDs). A malicious HID device, such as a compromised keyboard, mouse, or other USB input device, can send crafted input data that triggers memory corruption, leading to unexpected process crashes. This vulnerability primarily results in denial of service conditions by destabilizing affected processes. The issue was addressed by Apple in version 26.2 of the respective operating systems through improved input validation mechanisms that prevent malformed HID data from causing memory corruption. The affected versions are unspecified but include all versions prior to 26.2. Exploitation requires physical access to the device to connect the malicious HID, limiting remote attack feasibility. No public exploits or active exploitation have been reported to date. The vulnerability highlights the risk posed by untrusted peripherals in environments where physical device security is not tightly controlled. Given the cross-platform nature of the fix, the vulnerability affects a broad range of Apple devices, including Apple TV units used in consumer and enterprise media environments. The lack of a CVSS score suggests the need for a manual severity assessment based on impact and exploitability factors.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-43533 is the potential for denial of service through process crashes on Apple tvOS and related devices. This can disrupt media streaming, digital signage, or other services relying on Apple TV hardware, particularly in sectors such as broadcasting, retail, hospitality, and corporate environments using Apple devices for presentations or information displays. While the vulnerability does not appear to allow code execution or data exfiltration, the operational disruption could affect business continuity and user experience. Organizations with lax physical security controls are at higher risk, as exploitation requires direct connection of a malicious HID device. The impact is more significant in environments with shared or publicly accessible Apple TV devices, such as conference rooms or public kiosks. Additionally, the vulnerability affects multiple Apple platforms, so organizations with mixed Apple ecosystems should ensure comprehensive patching to prevent cross-device issues. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially from insider attackers or targeted physical attacks.

To mitigate CVE-2025-43533, European organizations should: 1) Immediately update all affected Apple devices (tvOS, watchOS, iOS, iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, visionOS) to version 26.2 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. 2) Enforce strict physical security policies to prevent unauthorized personnel from connecting external HID devices to Apple TVs and other Apple hardware. This includes securing USB ports and other input interfaces physically or through device management policies. 3) Implement endpoint security solutions that can detect and block unauthorized peripheral devices where possible. 4) Educate staff about the risks of connecting unknown or untrusted peripherals to corporate devices. 5) Regularly audit device configurations and access controls in environments using Apple TVs, especially in public or semi-public spaces. 6) Monitor system logs for unusual device connection events or process crashes that could indicate attempted exploitation. 7) Consider network segmentation for Apple TV devices to limit potential lateral movement or impact if disruption occurs. These steps go beyond generic patching by addressing the physical attack vector and operational controls specific to HID-based threats.