CVE-2025-46774 is a vulnerability identified in Fortinet's FortiClientMac installer affecting versions 7.4.2 and below, 7.2.9 and below, and all 7.0 versions. The root cause is an improper verification of cryptographic signatures (CWE-347) during the installation process, which allows a local user with limited privileges to escalate their privileges by exploiting FortiClient-related executables. This vulnerability can be leveraged to gain elevated privileges on the affected MacOS system, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code with higher privileges, modify system configurations, or disable security controls. The attack requires local access and some user interaction, making remote exploitation infeasible. The CVSS 3.1 score of 6.8 indicates a medium severity, with the vector showing local attack vector (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), low privileges required (PR:L), and user interaction required (UI:R). The scope is changed (S:C), meaning the vulnerability affects resources beyond the initially vulnerable component, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated high). No public exploits are known at this time, but the vulnerability's presence in widely deployed FortiClientMac versions makes it a significant concern for organizations relying on this endpoint security solution. Fortinet has not yet published patches or detailed mitigation guidance, but organizations should monitor for updates and prepare to apply them promptly.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to endpoint security on MacOS devices running FortiClient. Successful exploitation could allow an attacker with local access to escalate privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of security monitoring, and the ability to move laterally within networks. Organizations in sectors with stringent data protection requirements, such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, could face regulatory and operational impacts. The requirement for local access and user interaction limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments with shared workstations or insufficient endpoint controls. Given Fortinet's widespread use in Europe, especially in enterprise and government sectors, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks or insider threat scenarios. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but should not lead to complacency.

1. Restrict local user permissions on MacOS devices to minimize the number of users with access to FortiClient executables. 2. Implement strict endpoint security policies that limit installation and execution of unauthorized software. 3. Monitor FortiClient processes and related system logs for unusual activity indicative of privilege escalation attempts. 4. Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted installers or executables, emphasizing the need to avoid executing unknown files. 5. Apply Fortinet patches immediately once they are released; monitor Fortinet advisories and CVE databases for updates. 6. Consider deploying application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized execution of modified FortiClient components. 7. Use MacOS security features such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and Full Disk Encryption to reduce impact. 8. Conduct regular audits of user privileges and endpoint configurations to detect and remediate potential weaknesses. 9. In high-security environments, consider isolating MacOS endpoints or limiting FortiClient deployment until patches are available.