CVE-2025-46302 in macOS
Summary
by MITRE • 02/12/2026
The issue was addressed with improved bounds checks. This issue is fixed in macOS Sequoia 15.7.4, iOS 18.7.5 and iPadOS 18.7.5, macOS Sonoma 14.8.4. A malicious HID device may cause an unexpected process crash.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/14/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-46302 represents a critical bounds checking flaw that affects multiple Apple operating systems including macOS Sequoia 15.7.4, iOS 18.7.5, iPadOS 18.7.5, and macOS Sonoma 14.8.4. This security issue specifically targets the handling of Human Interface Device (HID) input streams where improper validation of input data could lead to memory corruption conditions. The vulnerability manifests when a malicious HID device attempts to communicate with an affected system, potentially triggering an unexpected process crash that could disrupt normal system operations.
The technical nature of this flaw falls under CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array index bounds, and CWE-131, which addresses improper handling of buffer sizes. The vulnerability occurs during the processing of HID device communications where the system fails to properly validate input parameters before using them in memory operations. When a specially crafted HID device connects to an affected system, it can send malformed data that bypasses existing bounds checking mechanisms, causing the system to attempt memory operations beyond allocated buffers. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through physical device connections, making it a significant concern for both desktop and mobile environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-46302 extends beyond simple system instability as it creates potential attack vectors for adversaries who can leverage physical access to HID devices. The vulnerability can be exploited in various attack scenarios including supply chain attacks where malicious HID devices are introduced into environments, or through targeted attacks where attackers gain physical access to systems. The unexpected process crashes can lead to denial of service conditions that may persist until system reboot, potentially disrupting critical operations in enterprise environments. According to ATT&CK framework tactic T1059, this vulnerability could enable adversaries to achieve persistent access through system compromise, while technique T1070.004 covers the use of system crashes as part of broader attack strategies.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-46302 primarily focus on immediate system updates and deployment of the patched versions mentioned in the advisory. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected devices to the latest supported versions including macOS Sequoia 15.7.4, iOS 18.7.5, iPadOS 18.7.5, and macOS Sonoma 14.8.4. Additionally, security teams should implement enhanced monitoring for unexpected system crashes or device disconnections, particularly in environments where physical access controls are insufficient. Network segmentation and device access controls should be strengthened to limit potential attack vectors, while security awareness training should emphasize the importance of verifying device authenticity before connecting to critical systems. The implementation of device whitelisting policies and mandatory firmware verification can provide additional layers of protection against malicious HID device exploitation.