CVE-2025-24126 is a critical vulnerability identified in Apple visionOS and several other Apple operating systems including iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, macOS Sequoia 15.3, watchOS 11.3, and tvOS 18.3. The root cause is an input validation flaw that can be exploited by an attacker positioned on the same local network as the target device. This flaw allows the attacker to trigger unexpected system termination (crashes) or corrupt process memory, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or denial of service. The vulnerability does not require any privileges or user interaction, making it highly exploitable. The CVSS v3.1 score of 9.8 reflects the vulnerability’s critical impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The affected systems include a broad range of Apple devices, from AR/VR headsets running visionOS to traditional Apple hardware running the latest OS versions. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the vulnerability’s characteristics suggest that exploitation could be automated and widespread if weaponized. The issue was addressed by Apple in the specified OS updates, which include improved input validation mechanisms to prevent malformed or malicious network inputs from causing memory corruption or crashes.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Apple devices in both consumer and enterprise environments. Potential impacts include service outages caused by system crashes, data breaches resulting from memory corruption and potential code execution, and disruption of critical business operations relying on Apple hardware and software. Enterprises deploying visionOS for augmented or virtual reality applications may face additional risks if these devices are used in sensitive or operational contexts. The lack of required authentication or user interaction lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the likelihood of exploitation in shared or poorly segmented local networks. This could lead to lateral movement within corporate networks or disruption of user endpoints. The critical severity and network-based attack vector necessitate urgent patching and network security controls to prevent exploitation.

1. Immediately update all affected Apple devices to the patched OS versions: visionOS 2.3, iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, macOS Sequoia 15.3, watchOS 11.3, and tvOS 18.3. 2. Implement strict network segmentation and access controls to limit local network exposure, especially in enterprise environments where Apple devices are used. 3. Monitor local network traffic for unusual or malformed packets that could indicate exploitation attempts targeting this input validation flaw. 4. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting abnormal process crashes or memory corruption events on Apple devices. 5. Educate IT and security teams about the vulnerability’s characteristics and ensure rapid incident response capabilities are in place. 6. For organizations using visionOS in operational or sensitive environments, consider additional isolation or dedicated network segments to reduce attack surface. 7. Regularly audit device OS versions and patch compliance to ensure no vulnerable systems remain in production.