CVE-2024-44274 is a vulnerability identified in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS operating systems that allows an attacker with physical access to a locked device to bypass authentication controls and view sensitive user information. The root cause stems from insufficient authentication mechanisms protecting certain data accessible even when the device is locked. This flaw does not require the attacker to have prior authentication credentials or to interact with the user, making it a direct physical access risk. Apple has released patches in iOS 17.7.1, iPadOS 17.7.1, watchOS 11.1, and subsequent versions to address this issue by improving authentication enforcement. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions prior to these patches, indicating a broad range of devices could be impacted. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.6 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is physical access (AV:P), with low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction needed (UI:N). The impact is limited to confidentiality (C:H), with no effect on integrity or availability. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the vulnerability poses a risk in scenarios where devices are lost, stolen, or temporarily accessed by unauthorized personnel. The vulnerability underscores the importance of robust authentication and physical security controls on mobile devices to prevent unauthorized data exposure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability primarily threatens the confidentiality of sensitive information stored on Apple mobile devices. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that rely heavily on iOS and iPadOS devices for communication and data access are at increased risk. Unauthorized physical access could lead to exposure of confidential emails, documents, credentials, or other sensitive data, potentially resulting in data breaches, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations), and reputational damage. Since the vulnerability does not affect device integrity or availability, operational disruption is unlikely. However, the ease of exploitation with physical access means that lost or stolen devices pose a significant risk. Organizations with mobile workforces or those that allow Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies must be particularly vigilant. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially from insider threats or opportunistic attackers.

1. Immediately apply the security updates released by Apple: iOS 17.7.1, iPadOS 17.7.1, watchOS 11.1, and later versions. 2. Enforce strict physical security policies to prevent unauthorized access to devices, including secure storage and controlled access areas. 3. Implement full device encryption and ensure that encryption keys are protected by strong passcodes or biometric authentication. 4. Educate employees about the risks of leaving devices unattended and the importance of reporting lost or stolen devices promptly. 5. Utilize Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, remotely lock, or wipe devices if compromised. 6. Limit sensitive data stored locally on devices and encourage use of secure cloud services with strong access controls. 7. Conduct regular audits and monitoring for unusual device access patterns or potential insider threats. 8. Consider disabling lock screen features that may expose sensitive information or limit notifications on the lock screen. These steps collectively reduce the risk of data exposure through physical device compromise beyond simply applying patches.