CVE-2025-57443 is a medium-severity vulnerability affecting FrostWire version 6.14.0-build-326 on macOS. The issue arises from the application having overly permissive entitlements, specifically 'allow-dyld-environment-variables' and 'disable-library-validation'. These entitlements allow an unprivileged local attacker to exploit the DYLD_INSERT_LIBRARIES environment variable to inject arbitrary code into the FrostWire process. This code injection can lead to privilege escalation, enabling the attacker to gain unauthorized access to directories that are approved by the Transparency, Consent, and Control (TCC) framework on macOS. The vulnerability does not require user interaction or prior authentication, but it does require local access to the machine. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.1, reflecting a medium severity with low attack complexity and no privileges required. The impact primarily affects confidentiality and integrity, as the attacker can execute arbitrary code and access sensitive directories, but it does not affect availability. No known exploits are currently in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-269 (Improper Privilege Management).

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to macOS endpoints running FrostWire 6.14.0-build-326. The ability for a local attacker to escalate privileges and access TCC-approved directories could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive user data, potentially including contacts, calendars, location data, and other protected information. This could result in data breaches, privacy violations, and compliance issues under regulations such as the GDPR. Organizations with macOS-based development, research, or creative teams using FrostWire may face increased risk. Although the attack requires local access, insider threats or attackers who gain physical or remote access to a workstation could exploit this vulnerability to move laterally or escalate privileges within the environment. The lack of user interaction and authentication requirements lowers the barrier for exploitation once local access is obtained. The impact on system integrity and confidentiality could disrupt business operations and damage organizational reputation.

European organizations should immediately audit their macOS endpoints to identify installations of FrostWire 6.14.0-build-326. Until an official patch is released, mitigation should include removing or disabling FrostWire on critical systems or restricting its use to non-sensitive environments. Employ endpoint protection solutions that monitor and block unauthorized use of environment variables like DYLD_INSERT_LIBRARIES. Implement strict local access controls and limit physical and remote access to macOS workstations. Use macOS security features such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and ensure TCC permissions are tightly managed. Regularly monitor logs for suspicious activity related to FrostWire processes or unexpected code injection attempts. Educate users about the risks of running untrusted applications and enforce application whitelisting policies. Once a patch is available, prioritize its deployment across all affected systems.