CVE-2025-24173 is a sandbox escape vulnerability identified in Apple tvOS and other Apple operating systems such as visionOS, macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. The root cause is insufficient entitlement checks that allow a malicious app to break out of its sandbox environment, which is designed to isolate apps and restrict their access to system resources and user data. This vulnerability falls under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control). The sandbox escape can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of system files, or disruption of device functionality. The vulnerability requires local access (AV:L) and user interaction (UI:R) but does not require prior privileges or authentication (PR:N). The scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the exploit affects only the vulnerable component without extending to other system components. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Apple has released patches in tvOS 18.4, iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, macOS Sequoia 15.4, macOS Sonoma 14.7.5, and visionOS 2.4 to address this issue by adding additional entitlement checks. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the potential for abuse remains significant due to the high impact of a successful sandbox escape.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially for those relying on Apple TV devices for digital signage, conferencing, or media distribution, as well as organizations with employees using Apple laptops, tablets, or visionOS devices. A successful sandbox escape could allow attackers to access sensitive corporate data, install persistent malware, or disrupt critical services. This could lead to data breaches, intellectual property theft, or operational downtime. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation, but insider threats or social engineering attacks could leverage this vulnerability. The impact is heightened in sectors with strict data protection requirements such as finance, healthcare, and government. Additionally, organizations using Apple ecosystems for secure communications or device management could see compromised integrity and confidentiality of their systems.

European organizations should immediately ensure all Apple devices are updated to the patched versions: tvOS 18.4, iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, macOS Sequoia 15.4, macOS Sonoma 14.7.5, and visionOS 2.4. Implement strict app vetting policies to prevent installation of untrusted or unsigned apps, especially on Apple TV devices. Employ Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce update compliance and restrict app installation sources. Educate users on the risks of interacting with untrusted apps or links that could trigger exploitation. Limit physical access to Apple devices in sensitive environments to reduce risk of local exploitation. Monitor device logs for unusual app behavior or sandbox violations. Consider network segmentation to isolate Apple TV devices from critical infrastructure. Regularly review entitlement configurations and permissions granted to apps to minimize attack surface.