CVE-2025-43406
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes a logic flaw in macOS that could allow malicious applications to access sensitive user data they shouldn't normally be able to reach. The vulnerability affects macOS systems before version 26.1, potentially exposing personal information to unauthorized applications.
💻 Affected Systems
- macOS
📦 What is this software?
Macos by Apple
macOS is Apple's desktop and laptop operating system powering Mac computers used by millions of professionals, developers, creative professionals, and enterprise users worldwide. Built on a Unix foundation with the Darwin kernel and modern Cocoa frameworks, macOS delivers a seamless ecosystem integr...
Learn more about Macos →⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
A malicious app could access sensitive user data including personal files, credentials, or other protected information stored on the system.
Likely Case
Malicious applications in the App Store or downloaded from untrusted sources could bypass intended restrictions to access user data they shouldn't have permissions for.
If Mitigated
With proper app vetting and user caution about application sources, the risk is significantly reduced as legitimate apps follow sandboxing rules.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires a malicious application to be installed and executed on the target system.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: macOS Tahoe 26.1
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/125634
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open System Settings 2. Click General 3. Click Software Update 4. Install macOS Tahoe 26.1 update 5. Restart when prompted
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Application Source Restriction
allOnly install applications from trusted sources like the official App Store
Gatekeeper Enforcement
allEnsure Gatekeeper is enabled to block apps from unidentified developers
sudo spctl --master-enable
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Restrict application installation to only trusted sources and the official App Store
- Implement application allowlisting to control which applications can run on the system
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check macOS version in System Settings > General > About. If version is earlier than 26.1, the system is vulnerable.Check Version:
sw_versVerify Fix Applied:
Verify macOS version shows 26.1 or later in System Settings > General > About.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual application behavior accessing protected directories
- Security framework denials for legitimate applications
Network Indicators:
- No network indicators as this is a local privilege issue
SIEM Query:
No specific SIEM query available as exploitation would appear as normal application activity