Overview
CVE-2025-43515 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Apple Compressor. This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker on the same network as a Compressor server to execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability stems from the application’s handling of external network connections. Apple addressed this issue by refusing external connections by default in Compressor version 4.11.1.
Technical Details
The vulnerability exists due to Compressor’s default configuration allowing external network connections. An attacker could exploit this by crafting malicious network requests and sending them to the Compressor server. This would allow the attacker to inject and execute arbitrary code on the server. The fix implemented by Apple disables external connections by default, preventing unauthorized access and code execution.
CVSS Analysis
This vulnerability has been assigned a CVSS score of 8.8, indicating a high level of severity.
- CVSS Score: 8.8
- Vector: (Hypothetical, based on the description – Further analysis required for precise vector) AV:A/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
- Explanation: This score reflects the fact that an attacker on the same network (Adjacent network access) can easily exploit the vulnerability (Low attack complexity) without needing any privileges (No privileges required) or user interaction (No user interaction required) to gain complete control over the system (High confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact).
Possible Impact
Successful exploitation of CVE-2025-43515 could have severe consequences, including:
- Remote Code Execution: An attacker can execute arbitrary code on the affected Compressor server.
- Data Breach: Sensitive data stored on or accessible by the server could be compromised.
- System Compromise: The entire Compressor server, and potentially other systems on the network, could be compromised.
- Denial of Service: The Compressor service could be rendered unavailable.
Mitigation and Patch Steps
The primary mitigation is to update Apple Compressor to version 4.11.1 or later.
- Update Compressor: The most effective solution is to upgrade to Compressor 4.11.1 or a later version through the Mac App Store or other official Apple channels.
- Network Segmentation: Isolate the Compressor server on a dedicated network segment with strict access controls to limit the impact of a potential breach.
- Monitor Network Traffic: Implement network monitoring to detect suspicious activity and potential exploit attempts.
References
Apple Security Updates: About the security content of Compressor 4.11.1
Full Disclosure Mailing List: CVE-2025-43515 Detail
