CVE-2025-46305 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS and related operating systems (iOS and iPadOS) that involves improper bounds checking in the handling of Human Interface Devices (HIDs). HIDs include peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and other input devices. A malicious HID device crafted to exploit this vulnerability can trigger an unexpected process crash, resulting in denial-of-service (DoS) conditions. The root cause is a buffer over-read or out-of-bounds memory access (CWE-119), which Apple mitigated by improving bounds checks in the affected code paths. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions prior to the patched releases: macOS Sequoia 15.7.4, macOS Sonoma 14.8.4, iOS 18.7.5, and iPadOS 18.7.5. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.7 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is adjacent network (AV:A) requiring no privileges (PR:N) but user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact is limited to availability (A:H) with no confidentiality or integrity impact. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the vulnerability presents a risk of service disruption if a malicious HID device is connected to a vulnerable system. This vulnerability highlights the risks posed by untrusted peripherals and the importance of robust input validation in OS device drivers.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-46305 is denial-of-service through unexpected process crashes triggered by malicious HID devices. For organizations worldwide, this can lead to temporary loss of availability of critical systems running macOS or Apple mobile OSes, potentially disrupting business operations, especially in environments relying heavily on Apple hardware. While the vulnerability does not compromise confidentiality or integrity, repeated or targeted exploitation could degrade user productivity and cause operational interruptions. Environments with high physical access risk or where untrusted peripherals may be connected (e.g., public kiosks, shared workspaces, or supply chain scenarios) are particularly vulnerable. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the medium severity score and ease of triggering via user interaction mean organizations should not delay patching. The vulnerability also underscores the threat posed by malicious hardware devices, which may be used as vectors in more complex attack chains.

Organizations should immediately apply the security updates released by Apple: macOS Sequoia 15.7.4, macOS Sonoma 14.8.4, iOS 18.7.5, and iPadOS 18.7.5 or later. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict controls on physical device access to prevent connection of unauthorized or untrusted HID devices. This includes enforcing policies for peripheral device management, using endpoint security solutions capable of detecting and blocking suspicious USB or Bluetooth devices, and educating users about the risks of connecting unknown hardware. Network segmentation and limiting user privileges can reduce the impact of potential exploitation. Monitoring system logs for unusual device connection events and process crashes can aid early detection. For high-security environments, consider disabling unused HID interfaces or employing hardware-based device authentication mechanisms. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should include attempts to exploit HID-related vulnerabilities to validate defenses.