CVE-2025-24130 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that permits an application to modify protected parts of the file system without requiring any privileges or user interaction. This vulnerability arises from insufficient validation and enforcement of access controls on sensitive file system areas, allowing an unprivileged app to bypass macOS's security mechanisms. The flaw affects multiple macOS versions prior to the patched releases: Ventura 13.7.3, Sequoia 15.3, and Sonoma 14.7.3. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8, reflecting its critical nature with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Exploiting this vulnerability could enable attackers to alter system files, potentially leading to privilege escalation, persistent malware installation, or complete system compromise. Apple addressed this issue by implementing improved checks to enforce file system protections more robustly. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild, the vulnerability's characteristics make it a prime target for attackers seeking to gain unauthorized control over macOS systems. Organizations relying on macOS devices should consider this vulnerability a high priority for remediation to prevent potential exploitation.

The impact of CVE-2025-24130 on European organizations is significant due to the critical nature of the vulnerability and the widespread use of Apple macOS devices in business and government sectors. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized modification of protected system files, resulting in complete system compromise. This compromises confidentiality by exposing sensitive data, integrity by allowing malicious alteration of system components, and availability by potentially disabling critical system functions. For organizations in finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure, such a breach could lead to data loss, operational disruption, regulatory penalties, and reputational damage. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation without privileges or user interaction increases the risk of automated or remote attacks. European organizations with remote workforces using macOS devices are particularly vulnerable if devices are not promptly updated. Additionally, the lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation before widespread attacks occur.

To mitigate CVE-2025-24130, European organizations should immediately deploy the security updates provided by Apple in macOS Ventura 13.7.3, Sequoia 15.3, and Sonoma 14.7.3. Patch management processes must prioritize these updates across all macOS endpoints. Organizations should enforce strict application control policies, limiting app installations to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store and using Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to restrict unauthorized software. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of monitoring for unusual file system modifications or privilege escalation attempts. Regularly audit system integrity and file system permissions to detect unauthorized changes. Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted applications and maintain network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement from compromised macOS devices. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups to enable recovery in case of compromise.