CVE-2025-24142 is a medium-severity privacy vulnerability affecting Apple macOS operating systems, specifically versions prior to macOS Ventura 13.7.6, macOS Sequoia 15.5, and macOS Sonoma 14.7.6. The vulnerability arises from insufficient redaction of private data in system log entries, which could allow a malicious application to access sensitive user information that should otherwise be protected. The core issue relates to improper handling of sensitive data within logs, categorized under CWE-200 (Exposure of Sensitive Information to an Unauthorized Actor). Exploitation requires local access (Attack Vector: Local) and user interaction (UI:R), but no privileges (PR:N) or elevated permissions are needed. The vulnerability does not impact system integrity or availability but compromises confidentiality by exposing sensitive data. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.5, reflecting a medium severity level. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild. Apple has addressed this issue by improving private data redaction in log entries in the specified patched macOS versions. Organizations running affected macOS versions are at risk of sensitive data leakage if malicious apps are installed or executed, potentially leading to privacy violations and information disclosure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to user privacy and confidentiality of sensitive data on macOS devices. Given the widespread use of Apple products in sectors such as finance, healthcare, legal, and government within Europe, unauthorized access to sensitive user data could lead to regulatory non-compliance, especially under GDPR mandates that require strict protection of personal data. Although the vulnerability does not allow privilege escalation or system compromise, the exposure of sensitive information could facilitate targeted phishing, social engineering, or further attacks. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using macOS devices are particularly vulnerable if users install untrusted applications. The impact is heightened in environments where sensitive personal or corporate data is processed on macOS endpoints. Additionally, the lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk, but the medium severity and ease of exploitation via local user interaction necessitate prompt patching to prevent potential future abuse.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to the patched versions: Ventura 13.7.6, Sequoia 15.5, or Sonoma 14.7.6. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict application control policies to limit installation of untrusted or unsigned applications, reducing the risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring unusual access to system logs or sensitive data. Educate users on the risks of installing unknown software and the importance of applying system updates promptly. Employ macOS-specific privacy and security configurations, such as restricting access to system logs and sensitive directories through system preferences and mobile device management (MDM) tools. Regularly audit macOS devices for compliance with security policies and verify that no unauthorized applications have been installed. Finally, integrate vulnerability management processes to track and remediate such issues swiftly.