CVE-2025-24114 is a permissions-based vulnerability in Apple macOS that allows an application with limited privileges (local access and low privilege level) to modify protected parts of the file system. The root cause is a permissions issue that was insufficiently restrictive, enabling unauthorized write access to critical system areas. This vulnerability falls under CWE-863 (Incorrect Authorization), indicating that the system failed to properly enforce access control policies. The issue affects macOS versions prior to Sequoia 15.3, Sonoma 14.7.3, and Ventura 13.7.3, where Apple has implemented additional restrictions to address the flaw. Exploitation does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to have some level of local privileges, limiting remote exploitation potential. The impact is primarily on system integrity, as unauthorized modification of protected file system areas can lead to persistence of malicious code, tampering with system files, or destabilizing the operating system. Confidentiality and availability impacts are minimal or not present. No public exploits have been reported, but the vulnerability poses a risk in environments where local access is possible, such as shared workstations or compromised user accounts. The CVSS v3.1 score of 5.5 reflects medium severity, considering the attack vector is local, privileges required are low, and no user interaction is needed.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-24114 is on system integrity, as it allows an attacker with limited local privileges to modify protected parts of the macOS file system. This can enable persistence mechanisms for malware, unauthorized system modifications, or tampering with security controls. Although it does not directly compromise confidentiality or availability, the integrity breach can facilitate further attacks or system instability. Organizations with macOS deployments, especially those in sensitive or multi-user environments, face increased risk of insider threats or lateral movement by attackers who gain limited local access. The vulnerability could be leveraged to implant backdoors or evade detection by modifying system files. Since exploitation requires local access, remote attackers have limited direct impact unless they first compromise a user account or device. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits post-disclosure. Failure to patch could lead to targeted attacks in high-value environments such as government, finance, or technology sectors.

To mitigate CVE-2025-24114, organizations should promptly apply the security updates provided by Apple in macOS Sequoia 15.3, Sonoma 14.7.3, and Ventura 13.7.3 or later. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict local access controls and minimize the number of users with local privileges on macOS systems. Implementing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions can help detect unauthorized modifications to protected file system areas. Regular integrity monitoring of critical system files and directories is recommended to identify suspicious changes early. Employing strong user account management, including the principle of least privilege and multi-factor authentication, reduces the risk of privilege escalation and local exploitation. For shared or public macOS environments, consider additional sandboxing or application whitelisting to limit app capabilities. Monitoring logs for unusual file system activity can provide early warning of exploitation attempts. Finally, educating users about the risks of installing untrusted applications can help prevent local compromise.