CVE-2025-43417

Vulnerability

Overview

CVE-2025-43417 is a path handling vulnerability in macOS that could allow an app to access user-sensitive data. The issue was addressed with improved logic in the operating system's file path processing. Apple fixed the flaw in macOS Sonoma 14.8.4 and macOS Tahoe 26.2 [1][2].

Exploitation

The vulnerability can be exploited by a malicious or compromised application running on the affected system. No special privileges beyond standard app sandboxing are required, as the bug lies in how the system resolves or validates file paths, potentially bypassing intended access restrictions. The attack surface is local, meaning an attacker would need to have an app installed on the target Mac [1][2].

Impact

Successful exploitation could allow an app to access sensitive user data, such as payment tokens or other private information stored on the system. The impact is limited to data confidentiality, with no indication of code execution or privilege escalation. The CVSS v3 score of 5.5 (Medium) reflects this moderate severity [1][2].

Mitigation

Apple has released security updates for both macOS Sonoma 14.8.4 and macOS Tahoe 26.2 that patch this vulnerability. Users are advised to update their systems via Software Update or Apple's support site. There are no known workarounds, and the issue is not listed on CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog as of publication [1][2].