CVE-2024-44252 is a logic flaw in Apple visionOS and other Apple operating systems related to the restoration of backup files. Specifically, the vulnerability arises from improper file handling when restoring backups, allowing a maliciously crafted backup file to modify protected system files. This can lead to unauthorized changes to critical system components, potentially impacting system integrity and availability. The vulnerability requires local access and user interaction, as an attacker must convince a user to restore a malicious backup. No prior privileges are necessary, which lowers the barrier to exploitation. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.1 (high), reflecting the significant impact on integrity and availability, with low attack complexity and no privileges required. Apple has fixed this issue in visionOS 2.1, iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and related updates. Although no active exploits have been reported, the vulnerability poses a serious risk if exploited, especially in environments where devices are shared or backups are restored from untrusted sources. The flaw highlights the importance of secure backup handling and validation mechanisms in operating systems that manage sensitive system files.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-44252 can be substantial, particularly for those deploying Apple visionOS devices in critical or sensitive environments such as healthcare, finance, government, and industrial sectors. Unauthorized modification of protected system files can lead to system instability, denial of service, or persistent compromise, undermining operational continuity and data integrity. Since the vulnerability requires user interaction, social engineering or insider threats could facilitate exploitation. Organizations with policies allowing backup restoration from external or unverified sources are at higher risk. The disruption could affect business processes, compliance with data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR), and trust in Apple device security. Additionally, the integration of visionOS in emerging augmented reality and mixed reality applications in Europe could amplify the impact if these devices are compromised. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation before widespread attacks occur.

1. Immediately apply the security updates released by Apple for visionOS 2.1, iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and related platforms to ensure the vulnerability is patched. 2. Restrict the restoration of backup files to trusted sources only; implement policies that prevent users from restoring backups from unverified or external devices. 3. Educate users about the risks of restoring backups from unknown sources and train them to recognize potential social engineering attempts. 4. Monitor system files and integrity using endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools or Apple’s built-in security features to detect unauthorized modifications. 5. Implement strict access controls on devices to limit local access and reduce the risk of malicious backup restoration. 6. Regularly audit backup and restore procedures to ensure compliance with security policies. 7. Consider deploying mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce update policies and restrict backup restoration capabilities where feasible. 8. Maintain incident response readiness to quickly address any signs of compromise related to this vulnerability.