CVE-2025-24101 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows an application to access user-sensitive data improperly due to insufficient redaction mechanisms. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-922, which relates to improper restriction of sensitive information. The issue was addressed by Apple in macOS Sequoia 15.3 through improved redaction techniques that prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium severity), with the vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N indicating that the attack requires local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges (PR:N), but requires user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact is high on confidentiality (C:H) but none on integrity (I:N) or availability (A:N). This means an attacker with local access and the ability to trick a user into interaction could extract sensitive information from the system. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, suggesting limited current exploitation. The affected versions are unspecified but are all versions prior to macOS Sequoia 15.3 where the fix was implemented. The vulnerability poses a risk primarily to users and organizations relying on macOS devices, especially where sensitive data confidentiality is critical.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive user data if exploited, potentially compromising personal information, intellectual property, or confidential business data stored or processed on macOS devices. The requirement for local access and user interaction limits remote exploitation but insider threats or social engineering attacks could leverage this vulnerability. Organizations with macOS-heavy environments, such as creative industries, software development firms, and financial institutions, may face increased risk. Data privacy regulations like GDPR heighten the impact of any data leakage, potentially leading to regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Although the vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, the confidentiality breach alone can have significant operational and legal consequences.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to macOS Sequoia 15.3 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. Implement strict application control policies to limit installation and execution of untrusted or unnecessary apps, reducing the attack surface. Employ endpoint security solutions capable of monitoring and restricting app behaviors that attempt to access sensitive data. Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted applications or links to prevent social engineering exploitation. Conduct regular audits of installed software and permissions to ensure compliance with security policies. For highly sensitive environments, consider additional data encryption and access controls at the application and OS level. Maintain an inventory of macOS devices and enforce patch management processes to ensure timely updates. Finally, monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence sources for any emerging exploit reports related to this vulnerability.