CVE-2025-24178 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Apple tvOS and other Apple operating systems including macOS Ventura, macOS Sequoia, macOS Sonoma, iOS, and iPadOS. The vulnerability arises from improper state management that allows an application to escape its sandbox environment. The sandbox is a security mechanism designed to isolate apps and restrict their access to system resources and user data. By breaking out of the sandbox, a malicious app can execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially compromising the entire system's confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8, indicating it is easy to exploit (no privileges or user interaction required) and has a wide impact scope. Apple addressed this issue by improving state management in the affected operating systems, releasing patches in versions macOS Ventura 13.7.5, tvOS 18.4, iPadOS 17.7.6, iOS 18.4, macOS Sequoia 15.4, and macOS Sonoma 14.7.5. Although no exploits have been observed in the wild yet, the nature of the vulnerability makes it a prime target for attackers aiming to gain persistent and elevated access on Apple devices. The vulnerability affects all versions prior to the patched releases, but specific affected versions are not detailed. The flaw impacts Apple TV devices primarily but also extends to other Apple platforms, increasing the potential attack surface. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because sandbox escapes can lead to full device compromise, data theft, installation of persistent malware, or lateral movement within networks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-24178 could be significant, especially for those using Apple TV devices for media delivery, digital signage, or conference room management, as well as enterprises with employees using Apple laptops, tablets, and phones. A successful exploit could allow attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive corporate data, install persistent malware, or disrupt services. This could lead to data breaches, intellectual property theft, operational downtime, and reputational damage. Sectors such as media, finance, government, and critical infrastructure that rely on Apple ecosystems for secure communications and content delivery are particularly at risk. The vulnerability’s ease of exploitation and high severity mean that even targeted attacks or supply chain compromises could have widespread consequences. Furthermore, the cross-platform nature of the vulnerability increases the risk of multi-device compromise within organizations. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the criticality demands urgent attention to patching and monitoring.

European organizations should immediately deploy the security updates released by Apple for all affected operating systems: macOS Ventura 13.7.5, tvOS 18.4, iPadOS 17.7.6, iOS 18.4, macOS Sequoia 15.4, and macOS Sonoma 14.7.5. Beyond patching, organizations should restrict app installation to trusted sources only, such as the Apple App Store, and enforce strict app vetting policies. Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to centrally manage updates and monitor device compliance. Network segmentation should be used to isolate Apple TV devices and other Apple endpoints from critical infrastructure to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. Employ runtime application self-protection (RASP) and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting anomalous app behavior indicative of sandbox escape attempts. Regularly audit installed applications and remove any unnecessary or untrusted apps. Educate users about the risks of installing unauthorized apps and the importance of timely updates. Finally, maintain up-to-date incident response plans that include scenarios involving Apple device compromises.