CVE-2025-24136 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS related to the creation of symbolic links (symlinks) by malicious applications. The issue stems from inadequate validation when an app attempts to create symlinks pointing to protected regions of the disk, which are normally restricted to prevent unauthorized access or modification. By exploiting this flaw, a malicious app could potentially redirect file operations to sensitive areas, leading to unauthorized disclosure or alteration of data. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-59 (Improper Link Resolution Before File Access). It requires local access and user interaction but does not require elevated privileges, making it moderately accessible to attackers who can trick users into running the malicious app. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.4 (medium severity), reflecting limited impact on availability and moderate impact on confidentiality and integrity. Apple fixed this vulnerability by enhancing symlink validation in macOS Ventura 13.7.3, Sequoia 15.3, and Sonoma 14.7.3. No public exploits or active exploitation have been reported to date, but the risk remains for unpatched systems. This vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks to bypass filesystem protections and access or modify sensitive files, potentially aiding in privilege escalation or data exfiltration scenarios.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to confidentiality and integrity of data stored on macOS devices. Attackers with local access could exploit the flaw to create symlinks that redirect file operations to protected system or user data areas, potentially exposing sensitive information or corrupting critical files. This could undermine trust in data security, disrupt business operations, or facilitate further attacks such as privilege escalation or lateral movement within networks. The requirement for user interaction and local access limits remote exploitation, but insider threats or social engineering attacks remain plausible vectors. Organizations relying heavily on macOS systems for critical infrastructure, development, or sensitive data processing could face increased risk if devices remain unpatched. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate future risk, especially as exploit techniques evolve. Compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR may also be impacted if sensitive data is compromised due to this vulnerability.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to versions Ventura 13.7.3, Sequoia 15.3, or Sonoma 14.7.3 or later to apply the patch that fixes this vulnerability. Beyond patching, implement strict application control policies to prevent installation or execution of untrusted or malicious apps, reducing the risk of local exploitation. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring suspicious filesystem activities, including unusual symlink creation attempts. Educate users on the risks of installing unverified software and the importance of cautious interaction with applications, especially those requesting elevated filesystem access. Restrict local user permissions to the minimum necessary to limit the ability of malicious apps to create symlinks in protected areas. Regularly audit filesystem integrity and monitor logs for anomalies related to symbolic link operations. For high-security environments, consider deploying macOS security features such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and Full Disk Encryption to further protect sensitive data. Finally, maintain an updated inventory of macOS devices and their patch status to ensure compliance and rapid response.