CVE-2025-24100 is a logic flaw in Apple macOS that permits an application with limited privileges to access a user's contacts without proper authorization. This vulnerability stems from insufficient restrictions in the operating system's handling of contact data access, categorized under CWE-1284 (Improper Access Control). Exploitation requires local access and privileges (AV:L, PR:L), but no user interaction is needed (UI:N), making it possible for a malicious or compromised app installed on the system to silently read contact information. The impact is limited to confidentiality (C:L) with no effect on integrity or availability. Apple has fixed this issue in macOS Ventura 13.7.3, Sequoia 15.3, and Sonoma 14.7.3 by enhancing access control mechanisms. No public exploits or widespread attacks have been reported, indicating a low likelihood of immediate threat. However, the vulnerability could be leveraged for privacy breaches or targeted espionage if an attacker gains local access. The CVSS score of 3.3 reflects the low severity due to the requirement of local privileges and limited impact scope.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-24100 is the unauthorized disclosure of contact information stored on macOS devices. This could lead to privacy violations, exposure of sensitive personal or business contacts, and potential social engineering or phishing attacks leveraging harvested contact data. Organizations in sectors such as finance, government, and technology, where contact data confidentiality is critical, may face reputational damage and compliance risks under GDPR if contact information is leaked. The requirement for local privileges reduces the risk of remote exploitation, but insider threats or malware with local access could exploit this vulnerability. The impact on operational integrity and availability is negligible, but the confidentiality breach potential necessitates prompt remediation to maintain trust and regulatory compliance.

To mitigate CVE-2025-24100, European organizations should immediately ensure all macOS devices are updated to versions Ventura 13.7.3, Sequoia 15.3, or Sonoma 14.7.3 or later. Enforce strict application installation policies to prevent unauthorized or untrusted apps from running, especially those requesting access to contacts. Utilize macOS's built-in privacy controls to audit and restrict app permissions related to contacts. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for anomalous app behavior accessing contact data. Educate users about the risks of installing unverified applications and the importance of reporting suspicious activity. Regularly review and audit access logs for contact data to detect potential misuse. For high-security environments, consider additional controls such as application whitelisting and sandboxing to limit app capabilities.