CVE-2025-46285 is a security vulnerability in Apple macOS stemming from an integer overflow issue related to timestamp processing. The root cause involves the use of insufficiently large integer values to represent timestamps, which can overflow and lead to incorrect calculations or memory corruption. Apple mitigated this by transitioning to 64-bit timestamps in macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 and macOS Sequoia 15.7.3, effectively eliminating the overflow condition. Exploiting this vulnerability allows a malicious application to escalate its privileges to root level, granting full control over the affected system. This can enable attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, modify system configurations, install persistent malware, or disrupt system operations. The vulnerability affects unspecified macOS versions prior to the patched releases. Although no exploits have been reported in the wild, the nature of the flaw and the privilege escalation potential make it a significant threat. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond app installation, and no authentication is needed to exploit it once a malicious app is running. This increases the risk, especially in environments where users can install third-party applications without strict controls. The adoption of 64-bit timestamps as a fix indicates the problem was rooted in legacy 32-bit integer handling, a common source of integer overflow vulnerabilities. Organizations relying on macOS systems should prioritize patching to prevent potential exploitation.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-46285 can be severe. Successful exploitation grants attackers root privileges, enabling full system compromise. This threatens confidentiality by exposing sensitive data, integrity by allowing unauthorized modifications, and availability by permitting disruptive actions such as system shutdown or malware deployment. Sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure that use macOS devices for sensitive operations are particularly at risk. The ability to escalate privileges without user interaction or authentication increases the likelihood of stealthy attacks. Unpatched systems could serve as entry points for broader network compromise or espionage campaigns. Additionally, organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies may face increased exposure if personal macOS devices are compromised and connected to corporate networks. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits following public disclosure. Therefore, European entities must act swiftly to mitigate potential damage.

1. Immediately apply the security updates macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 and macOS Sequoia 15.7.3 or later to all affected systems. 2. Enforce strict application installation policies, limiting installations to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store and verified developers. 3. Implement endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting privilege escalation attempts and anomalous behavior on macOS devices. 4. Conduct regular audits of installed applications and running processes to identify unauthorized or suspicious software. 5. Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted applications and the importance of timely system updates. 6. Utilize macOS security features such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and mandatory code signing to reduce attack surface. 7. Monitor network traffic and system logs for indicators of compromise related to privilege escalation activities. 8. For organizations with BYOD policies, enforce mobile device management (MDM) solutions to ensure compliance with security standards and patching requirements. 9. Maintain an incident response plan that includes procedures for handling macOS privilege escalation incidents.