CVE-2025-24164 is a logic vulnerability in Apple macOS that permits an application to modify protected parts of the file system. The root cause is a flaw in the system's logic checks that failed to adequately restrict file system modifications by unprivileged applications. This vulnerability affects multiple recent macOS versions, including Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, and Sonoma 14.7.5, and was addressed by Apple through improved verification mechanisms in these updates. The CVSS 3.1 score is 5.5 (medium), reflecting that exploitation requires local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges (PR:N), but user interaction (UI:R). The impact is primarily on integrity (I:H), with no direct confidentiality or availability impact. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could alter critical system files or configurations, potentially enabling persistence, privilege escalation, or bypassing security controls. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability represents a significant risk if left unpatched. The CWE classification is CWE-200, indicating exposure of sensitive information or improper access control. The vulnerability underscores the importance of strict access control and validation in operating system file system management.

For European organizations, the ability of an unprivileged app to modify protected file system areas could lead to serious integrity breaches. This may enable attackers to implant persistent malware, alter security configurations, or disable protective mechanisms, increasing the risk of further compromise. Organizations relying on macOS for critical operations, including government agencies, financial institutions, and creative industries, could face operational disruptions or data integrity issues. The threat is heightened in environments where users install third-party or less vetted applications, as exploitation requires user interaction. While confidentiality and availability impacts are not directly indicated, the integrity compromise could indirectly affect these areas by facilitating subsequent attacks. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future exploitation, especially as attackers analyze the patch to develop bypasses. Therefore, European entities must prioritize patching to maintain system trustworthiness and prevent lateral movement within networks.

1. Immediately apply the macOS security updates that address CVE-2025-24164 (Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, Sonoma 14.7.5 or later). 2. Restrict installation of applications to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store or verified developers to reduce the risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. 3. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions that monitor and block unauthorized file system modifications. 4. Educate users on the risks of interacting with untrusted applications or links that could trigger exploitation. 5. Employ system integrity monitoring tools to detect unexpected changes to protected file system areas. 6. Regularly audit macOS systems for compliance with security policies and verify patch levels. 7. Limit local user privileges where possible to reduce the attack surface. 8. Monitor security advisories from Apple and cybersecurity communities for any emerging exploit reports or additional mitigation guidance.