CVE-2024-23215 is a vulnerability in Apple iOS and iPadOS identified due to improper handling of temporary files, which could allow a malicious app to access user-sensitive data. The flaw arises from insufficient isolation or cleanup of temporary files, enabling unauthorized access to data that should be protected. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple platforms, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS Sonoma, watchOS, and tvOS, with fixes released in versions 17.3 for iOS/iPadOS and corresponding updates for other OSes. The CVSS 3.1 score is 5.5 (medium), reflecting that exploitation requires local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges (PR:N), but user interaction (UI:R). The impact is primarily on confidentiality (C:H), with no impact on integrity or availability. No public exploits have been reported, indicating limited current exploitation. The vulnerability is significant because mobile devices often store sensitive personal and corporate data, and unauthorized access could lead to privacy violations or data leakage. The fix involves improved handling of temporary files to prevent unauthorized access. Organizations should ensure devices are updated to the patched OS versions to mitigate this risk.

For European organizations, the vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized access to sensitive user data on Apple mobile devices, potentially leading to data breaches, privacy violations, and exposure of confidential corporate information. This is particularly critical for sectors handling sensitive personal data such as finance, healthcare, and government. The confidentiality impact could undermine trust and lead to regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is compromised. Since exploitation requires local access and user interaction, the threat is more relevant in scenarios where devices might be physically accessed by attackers or users are tricked into installing malicious apps. The lack of impact on integrity and availability reduces the risk of system disruption but does not diminish the importance of protecting sensitive data. Organizations relying heavily on Apple devices for mobile workforce or BYOD policies must prioritize patching to prevent exploitation.

1. Deploy the latest Apple OS updates immediately, specifically iOS and iPadOS 17.3 or later, to ensure the vulnerability is patched. 2. Enforce strict app installation policies, allowing only apps from trusted sources such as the Apple App Store to reduce the risk of malicious app installation. 3. Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to monitor device compliance and restrict installation of unauthorized apps. 4. Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted apps and the importance of applying OS updates promptly. 5. Use app permission controls to limit access to sensitive data and temporary file storage areas where possible. 6. Monitor device logs and behavior for signs of suspicious activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. 7. For high-risk environments, consider additional endpoint security solutions that can detect anomalous app behavior on iOS/iPadOS devices.