CVE-2025-43537
📋 TL;DR
A path handling vulnerability in iOS/iPadOS backup restoration allows malicious backup files to modify protected system files. This affects users who restore backups from untrusted sources on vulnerable iOS/iPadOS versions. The issue could lead to system file corruption or privilege escalation.
💻 Affected Systems
- iOS
- iPadOS
📦 What is this software?
Ipados by Apple
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Malicious backup could corrupt critical system files, causing device instability, data loss, or enabling privilege escalation for further attacks.
Likely Case
Attackers could modify system files to bypass security controls, install persistent malware, or gain elevated privileges on the device.
If Mitigated
With proper controls, impact is limited to users who restore backups from untrusted sources, as the attack requires physical access or social engineering.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires a malicious backup file and user interaction to restore it. No public exploit details available.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: iOS 18.7.5 and iPadOS 18.7.5
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/126347
Restart Required: No
Instructions:
1. Open Settings app. 2. Go to General > Software Update. 3. Download and install iOS 18.7.5 or iPadOS 18.7.5. 4. Ensure backup is complete before updating.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict Backup Sources
allOnly restore backups from trusted sources and verified Apple devices.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Only restore backups from trusted, verified sources
- Implement mobile device management (MDM) to control backup policies
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check iOS/iPadOS version in Settings > General > About. If version is below 18.7.5, device is vulnerable.Check Version:
Settings > General > About > VersionVerify Fix Applied:
Confirm iOS/iPadOS version is 18.7.5 or higher in Settings > General > About.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual backup restoration activity
- System file modification attempts
Network Indicators:
- Backup transfers from untrusted sources
SIEM Query:
Search for backup restoration events from non-standard sources in mobile device logs