CVE-2025-43541 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE • 12/17/2025
A type confusion issue was addressed with improved state handling. This issue is fixed in Safari 26.2, iOS 18.7.3 and iPadOS 18.7.3, iOS 26.2 and iPadOS 26.2, macOS Tahoe 26.2, visionOS 26.2. Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to an unexpected Safari crash.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-43541 represents a type confusion issue that affects Apple's Safari web browser and related operating systems. This classification aligns with CWE-843, which specifically addresses type confusion vulnerabilities where an attacker can manipulate data type expectations during program execution. The flaw manifests when Safari processes maliciously crafted web content that exploits improper state handling mechanisms within the browser's memory management systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate type validation during web content processing, allowing attackers to manipulate memory structures through carefully constructed malicious payloads. When Safari encounters such content, the browser's internal state management fails to properly distinguish between different data types, creating opportunities for unexpected behavior that can result in application crashes. This type confusion scenario typically occurs during dynamic type operations where the program expects one data type but receives another, leading to memory corruption or execution flow disruptions.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-43541 extends beyond simple browser instability, as it represents a potential precursor to more severe exploitation vectors. While the current exploit only results in unexpected crashes, the underlying type confusion vulnerability creates opportunities for attackers to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code through sophisticated attack chains. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple platforms including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS, making it a widespread concern for organizations relying on Apple ecosystem devices. The crash behavior alone can be leveraged for denial-of-service attacks against targeted users or systems.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1203, which encompasses process injection and memory corruption methods that attackers may exploit to gain unauthorized access. The fix implemented in Safari 26.2 and associated operating system versions addresses the root cause through enhanced state handling mechanisms that properly validate data types during processing. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of these updates across all affected systems to prevent potential exploitation. The mitigation strategy should include monitoring for suspicious web content access patterns and implementing additional network security controls to prevent users from accessing known malicious websites. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date browser software and highlights the ongoing need for robust memory safety mechanisms in modern web browsers.