CVE-2025-24152 is a vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows a local application to cause unexpected system termination or corrupt kernel memory due to improper memory handling within the kernel. This vulnerability does not affect confidentiality or integrity but impacts system availability by potentially causing kernel panics or crashes. The issue requires an attacker to have local access with low privileges (PR:L) and does not require user interaction (UI:N). The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning remote exploitation is not feasible without prior access. The vulnerability is addressed in macOS Sequoia 15.3 by improving memory handling mechanisms to prevent corruption and unexpected termination. No specific affected versions are detailed, but the fix is included in the latest macOS release. There are no known exploits in the wild, indicating limited active threat currently. The CVSS 3.1 score is 5.5 (medium), reflecting the moderate impact on availability and the requirement for local access with low privileges. This vulnerability could be leveraged by malicious or compromised applications to disrupt system operations, potentially causing denial-of-service conditions or instability in critical environments.

For European organizations, this vulnerability primarily threatens system availability on macOS devices. Organizations relying on macOS for critical operations, including government agencies, financial institutions, and enterprises with macOS endpoints, may face unexpected system crashes or kernel panics leading to downtime or loss of productivity. While the vulnerability does not expose sensitive data or allow privilege escalation, the disruption caused by system termination could impact business continuity and operational stability. In environments where macOS devices are used for development, creative work, or endpoint computing, repeated crashes could lead to data loss or corruption of in-memory data. The requirement for local access limits the risk of remote attacks but insider threats or malware with local execution capabilities could exploit this flaw. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future exploitation. Organizations with mixed OS environments may find mitigation more complex if macOS endpoints are not uniformly patched.

To mitigate CVE-2025-24152, European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS devices to macOS Sequoia 15.3 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. Implement strict application control policies to restrict installation and execution of untrusted or unsigned applications, reducing the risk of malicious apps exploiting the flaw. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for abnormal application behavior or kernel crashes. Conduct regular audits of local user privileges to minimize unnecessary local access that could be leveraged for exploitation. Educate users about the risks of installing unauthorized software and enforce least privilege principles. In high-security environments, consider isolating macOS systems or limiting their use to trusted personnel. Maintain comprehensive backups to mitigate potential data loss from unexpected system terminations. Monitor Apple security advisories for any updates or emerging exploit reports related to this vulnerability.