CVE-2025-43536 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 that affects Apple’s iOS, iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, and Safari browser. The flaw arises from improper memory management when processing certain crafted web content, leading to the potential for an unexpected process crash. This vulnerability does not allow for code execution or data leakage but can cause denial-of-service by crashing affected processes, impacting system availability. The vulnerability requires no privileges and no authentication, but user interaction is necessary, typically in the form of visiting a malicious website or opening malicious web content. Apple has addressed this issue by improving memory management in the affected components, releasing patches in iOS 26.2, iPadOS 26.2, macOS Tahoe 26.2, Safari 26.2, and incremental updates 18.7.3 for iOS and iPadOS. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.3, reflecting a medium severity primarily due to the impact on availability and the ease of exploitation via remote network vectors. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the vulnerability remains a concern given the ubiquity of Apple devices and the common use of Safari for web browsing. The vulnerability’s scope includes all affected Apple devices running unpatched versions, potentially impacting enterprise and consumer users alike.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-43536 is the potential for denial-of-service conditions on Apple mobile devices and macOS systems when processing malicious web content. This can disrupt business operations, especially in sectors relying heavily on mobile workflows, such as finance, healthcare, and government services. While the vulnerability does not compromise data confidentiality or integrity, repeated or targeted exploitation could degrade user productivity and system reliability. Organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies or those that deploy Apple devices extensively may face increased risk. Additionally, sectors with high regulatory requirements for system availability and uptime could experience compliance challenges if affected by service interruptions. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the ease of triggering the crash via web content means attackers could weaponize this vulnerability for nuisance or targeted disruption campaigns.

To mitigate CVE-2025-43536, European organizations should prioritize the deployment of Apple’s security updates, specifically iOS 26.2, iPadOS 26.2, macOS Tahoe 26.2, Safari 26.2, and iOS/iPadOS 18.7.3. IT departments should enforce update policies that ensure devices are patched promptly. Network-level protections such as web filtering and intrusion prevention systems can help block access to known malicious websites that might host crafted content exploiting this vulnerability. User awareness training should emphasize caution when browsing untrusted websites or clicking on unknown links. Organizations should also consider implementing mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security configurations and monitor device compliance. For critical environments, restricting Safari usage or sandboxing browser processes may reduce impact. Continuous monitoring for unusual process crashes on Apple devices can help detect potential exploitation attempts early. Finally, maintaining an inventory of Apple devices and their patch status will support rapid response and remediation.