CVE-2025-24137 is a type confusion vulnerability classified under CWE-843, affecting Apple macOS and other Apple operating systems such as iPadOS, visionOS, watchOS, and tvOS. The vulnerability stems from improper type validation in the affected software components, which can be exploited remotely by an attacker to trigger unexpected application termination or execute arbitrary code. The attack vector is remote (AV:A), requiring no privileges (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as opening a malicious file or link. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated high). Apple has released patches in versions macOS Sonoma 14.7.3, macOS Sequoia 15.3, iPadOS 17.7.4 and 18.3, iOS 18.3, visionOS 2.3, watchOS 11.3, and tvOS 18.3 to address this issue by implementing improved type checks. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the nature of the vulnerability allows remote exploitation, making it a significant threat. The vulnerability's CVSS 3.1 score of 8.0 reflects its high impact and relatively low attack complexity. The flaw could be leveraged by attackers to gain code execution capabilities remotely, potentially leading to system compromise, data theft, or disruption of services on affected Apple devices.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially for those heavily reliant on Apple ecosystems, including macOS desktops and laptops, iPads, and other Apple devices. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, allowing attackers to install malware, exfiltrate sensitive data, or disrupt business operations. Sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and technology, which often use Apple devices for secure communications and operations, could face confidentiality breaches and operational downtime. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering could be used to trigger exploitation, increasing the risk in environments where users are less security-aware. Additionally, the vulnerability affects multiple Apple OS variants, broadening the attack surface across mobile, desktop, and embedded devices. Failure to patch promptly could result in targeted attacks leveraging this flaw, especially as threat actors develop exploits after public disclosure.

European organizations should immediately deploy the security updates released by Apple for all affected operating systems, including macOS Sonoma 14.7.3, macOS Sequoia 15.3, iPadOS 17.7.4 and 18.3, iOS 18.3, visionOS 2.3, watchOS 11.3, and tvOS 18.3. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict email and web filtering to reduce the risk of malicious content reaching end users, as exploitation requires user interaction. Security awareness training should emphasize the risks of opening unsolicited links or files on Apple devices. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions should be tuned to detect anomalous behaviors indicative of exploitation attempts. Network segmentation can limit lateral movement if a device is compromised. Additionally, organizations should review and restrict unnecessary remote access capabilities on Apple devices and enforce strong authentication mechanisms. Regular vulnerability scanning and asset inventory management will help ensure all Apple devices are identified and updated promptly.