CVE-2024-44258 is a vulnerability identified in Apple visionOS and related Apple operating systems, where the process of restoring backup files does not correctly handle symbolic links. Specifically, a maliciously crafted backup file containing symlinks can be used to overwrite or modify protected system files during the restoration process. This is classified under CWE-59 (Improper Link Resolution Before File Access), indicating that the system fails to securely resolve symlinks before file operations. The vulnerability allows an attacker to escalate their impact by modifying critical system files without requiring prior privileges, although user interaction is necessary to initiate the restore. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.1 reflects a high severity due to the potential for integrity and availability impacts, despite the attack vector being local and requiring user interaction. Apple has fixed this issue by improving symlink handling in visionOS 2.1, iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and other related OS versions. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild. The vulnerability could be exploited by tricking a user into restoring a backup containing malicious symlinks, leading to system file corruption or denial of service. This flaw is particularly relevant for environments where visionOS devices are used and backups may be restored from untrusted or compromised sources.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-44258 can be significant in environments where Apple visionOS devices are deployed, such as in AR/VR development, training, or operational contexts. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized modification of system files, compromising device integrity and potentially causing denial of service or persistent system corruption. This may disrupt business operations, especially in sectors relying on these devices for critical functions. Additionally, the integrity breach could be leveraged as a foothold for further attacks or lateral movement within networks. The requirement for local access and user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, particularly in scenarios where devices are shared or backups are restored from external sources. Organizations with strict compliance requirements around system integrity and availability may face regulatory or reputational consequences if affected. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive mitigation.

1. Immediately apply the latest Apple OS updates that address this vulnerability: visionOS 2.1, iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and related patches. 2. Restrict the sources of backup files to trusted and verified origins only; avoid restoring backups from unknown or untrusted devices or users. 3. Implement strict access controls and user training to prevent unauthorized or accidental restoration of malicious backups. 4. Monitor device logs and system integrity checks for signs of unauthorized file modifications or restore activities. 5. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting unusual file system changes or symlink manipulations. 6. For organizations deploying visionOS devices, establish policies that limit backup and restore operations to IT-managed processes. 7. Consider network segmentation and device isolation to reduce the risk of local attackers gaining access to restore functionality. 8. Regularly audit backup and restore procedures to ensure compliance with security policies and detect anomalies early.