CVE-2025-43306

Vulnerability

A logic issue in macOS allows a malicious app to escalate privileges to root. The vulnerability is present in macOS Sequoia 15.7 and earlier, macOS Sonoma 14.8 and earlier, and macOS Tahoe 26 and earlier. The issue is addressed with improved checks in the operating system's authorization or privilege management logic. [1] [2] [3]

Exploitation

To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker must have the ability to run a malicious app on the target Mac. No additional authentication or user interaction beyond launching the app is required. The application can be installed via social engineering, a drive-by download, or other means. Once executed, the app can trigger the logic flaw and escalate its privileges to root without further user action. [1] [2] [3]

Impact

A successful exploit allows a malicious app to gain full root privileges on the affected Mac. With root access, the attacker can install additional software, modify system files, access any user data, and perform any administrative action. This represents a complete compromise of the device's confidentiality, integrity, and availability. [1] [2] [3]

Mitigation

Apple has released security updates to fix this issue in macOS Tahoe 26, macOS Sequoia 15.7, and macOS Sonoma 14.8, all released on September 15, 2025. Users should update their Macs to the latest available version for their macOS line. No workaround is available for unpatched systems. The vulnerability is not listed on the CISA KEV catalog as of the publication date. [1] [2] [3]