CVE-2025-57741 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-732 (Incorrect Permission Assignment for Critical Resource) affecting Fortinet's FortiClientMac software versions 7.0.0, 7.2.0 through 7.2.11, and 7.4.0 through 7.4.3. The vulnerability allows a local attacker with limited privileges to escalate their privileges by exploiting improper permissions on LaunchDaemon resources. LaunchDaemons on macOS are system-level background processes that run with elevated privileges. By hijacking these LaunchDaemons—specifically by replacing or modifying their executable or configuration files due to weak permission settings—an attacker can execute arbitrary code with root or system-level privileges. This can lead to full system compromise, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification or deletion of critical files, and disruption of system availability. The vulnerability requires local access with some privileges but does not require user interaction, making it a potent threat in environments where attackers can gain initial foothold through other means such as phishing or insider threats. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.0 reflects a high severity, with attack vector local, low attack complexity, low privileges required, no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the public disclosure and detailed information increase the risk of exploitation. Fortinet has not yet published patches or mitigation instructions at the time of this report, so organizations must rely on interim controls.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-57741 can be significant, especially in sectors relying heavily on macOS endpoints protected by FortiClientMac, such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure. Successful exploitation allows attackers to gain root-level access, potentially leading to data breaches, disruption of business operations, and lateral movement within networks. Confidentiality is at risk as attackers can access sensitive information stored on compromised machines. Integrity is compromised since attackers can alter system files or security configurations. Availability may also be affected if attackers disrupt or disable security services or system processes. Given the local access requirement, the threat is particularly relevant for organizations with many users having local access to their devices or where insider threats are a concern. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity score demands urgent attention.

1. Apply patches immediately once Fortinet releases updates addressing this vulnerability. Monitor Fortinet advisories closely. 2. Until patches are available, restrict local user permissions rigorously to prevent unauthorized modification of LaunchDaemon files. 3. Implement strict endpoint security policies limiting installation of unauthorized software and modification of system files. 4. Use macOS system integrity protection (SIP) features and ensure they are enabled and properly configured. 5. Monitor system logs and LaunchDaemon configurations for unauthorized changes or suspicious activity. 6. Employ application whitelisting to prevent execution of untrusted code. 7. Conduct regular audits of user privileges and remove unnecessary local admin rights. 8. Educate users about the risks of local privilege escalation and enforce strong physical and logical access controls. 9. Consider network segmentation to limit lateral movement from compromised endpoints. 10. Prepare incident response plans to quickly detect and respond to potential exploitation attempts.