CVE-2025-24153 is a security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS involving a buffer overflow due to improper memory handling. This flaw allows an application that already possesses root privileges to escalate its capabilities and execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-120 (Classic Buffer Overflow), indicating that the issue stems from unsafe memory operations that can overwrite critical data structures in kernel memory. The vulnerability was addressed and fixed in macOS Sequoia 15.3 through improved memory handling techniques that prevent buffer overflow conditions. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 6.7 reflects a medium severity, with an attack vector requiring local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), high privileges required (PR:H), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Since exploitation requires root privileges, the attack surface is limited to scenarios where an attacker has already compromised or gained elevated access to the system. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, indicating this vulnerability is not currently actively exploited. However, successful exploitation can lead to complete kernel compromise, allowing attackers to bypass security controls, manipulate system behavior, and potentially persist undetected. The vulnerability affects all macOS versions prior to Sequoia 15.3, and organizations should prioritize patching to prevent privilege escalation attacks that could severely impact system security.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-24153 is the potential for privilege escalation from root-level application privileges to full kernel-level control. This can lead to complete compromise of the affected macOS system, allowing attackers to bypass security mechanisms, manipulate kernel data structures, install persistent malware, and disrupt system availability. The confidentiality of sensitive data stored or processed on the system can be severely impacted, as kernel-level access allows attackers to intercept or modify data at a fundamental level. Integrity is also at risk because attackers can alter system files, logs, and security configurations undetected. Availability may be compromised if attackers cause system crashes or denial-of-service conditions. Although exploitation requires prior root access, this vulnerability significantly raises the stakes for attackers who have already gained elevated privileges, enabling them to achieve full control over the system. Organizations relying on macOS for critical operations, especially those with multi-user environments or running third-party applications with elevated privileges, face increased risk. The lack of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate the risk of future exploitation, especially as attackers develop new techniques.

To mitigate CVE-2025-24153, organizations should immediately apply the security update provided in macOS Sequoia 15.3 or later, which contains the fix for this buffer overflow vulnerability. Beyond patching, organizations should audit and restrict applications that require root privileges, minimizing the attack surface by enforcing the principle of least privilege. Employ application whitelisting and code signing enforcement to prevent unauthorized or malicious apps from running with elevated privileges. Implement runtime protections such as kernel integrity monitoring and exploit mitigation technologies (e.g., Address Space Layout Randomization and Kernel Patch Protection) to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regularly review system logs and monitor for unusual kernel-level activity that may indicate exploitation attempts. For environments where root access is necessary, consider using sandboxing or containerization to isolate high-privilege processes. Educate system administrators and users about the risks of running untrusted code with elevated privileges. Finally, maintain an incident response plan that includes procedures for detecting and responding to kernel-level compromises.