CVE-2024-27838 is a vulnerability in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS platforms that enables a maliciously crafted webpage to fingerprint users. Fingerprinting is a technique used to collect unique device and browser characteristics to track users across the web without relying on traditional cookies. This vulnerability stems from insufficient restrictions or logic in the handling of web content, allowing attackers to gather detailed information about the user’s device configuration, browser settings, and potentially other environmental data. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79, indicating it relates to improper neutralization of input leading to cross-site scripting or similar issues that facilitate fingerprinting. The CVSS 3.1 score of 6.5 (medium severity) reflects that the attack vector is network-based, requires no privileges, but does require user interaction (visiting a malicious webpage). The impact is primarily on user privacy (integrity of user anonymity) rather than confidentiality or availability. Apple has released patches across multiple OS versions including iOS 16.7.8, iOS 17.5, iPadOS 16.7.8, iPadOS 17.5, tvOS 17.5, watchOS 10.5, macOS Sonoma 14.5, and Safari 17.5 to mitigate this issue by adding additional logic to prevent fingerprinting. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the potential for abuse exists especially in targeted tracking and profiling scenarios.

For European organizations, the primary impact is on user privacy and data protection compliance. Fingerprinting can be used to track users without their consent, potentially violating GDPR and other privacy regulations. Organizations relying on Apple devices for employee use or customer-facing applications may face increased risk of user profiling and targeted attacks leveraging fingerprinting data. This could lead to reputational damage, regulatory scrutiny, and loss of user trust. While the vulnerability does not allow direct data theft or system compromise, the erosion of user anonymity can facilitate more sophisticated social engineering or targeted phishing campaigns. Additionally, sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, which handle sensitive personal data, may be particularly concerned about privacy breaches stemming from fingerprinting. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk but patching remains critical to prevent future abuse.

European organizations should ensure all Apple devices are updated to the latest patched versions: iOS 16.7.8 or later, iOS 17.5, iPadOS 16.7.8 or later, iPadOS 17.5, and corresponding updates for related OSes and Safari. Network-level protections such as web filtering and blocking access to known malicious domains can reduce exposure to malicious webpages. Employ privacy-focused browser settings and extensions that limit fingerprinting techniques. Educate users about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of applying OS updates promptly. For enterprise-managed devices, enforce update policies and monitor device compliance. Consider deploying endpoint detection tools that can identify suspicious web activity indicative of fingerprinting attempts. Review and update privacy policies to reflect mitigation of fingerprinting risks and ensure transparency with users. Finally, monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploits related to this vulnerability.