CVE-2025-24188 is a logic flaw vulnerability in Apple Safari that leads to an unexpected browser crash when processing specially crafted web content. The issue stems from insufficient validation or checks in Safari's web content processing engine, categorized under CWE-703 (Improper Check or Handling of Exceptional Conditions). This flaw can be triggered remotely by an unauthenticated attacker who entices a user to visit a malicious webpage, causing a denial-of-service (DoS) by crashing the browser. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions of Safari prior to 18.6 and macOS Sequoia 15.6, where Apple has implemented improved checks to resolve the issue. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.5, reflecting a medium severity level with attack vector as network (remote), low attack complexity, no privileges required, but requiring user interaction. The impact is limited to availability (A:H), with no impact on confidentiality or integrity. There are currently no known exploits in the wild, indicating limited active exploitation. However, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted denial-of-service attacks against Safari users, disrupting browsing sessions and potentially impacting business operations reliant on Safari. The fix involves updating to Safari 18.6 and macOS Sequoia 15.6 or later. No additional mitigations or workarounds are documented, but standard security hygiene such as network filtering and user awareness can reduce risk.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-24188 is denial-of-service through browser crashes, which can disrupt user productivity and access to web-based applications. Organizations relying heavily on Safari for internal or external web services may experience interruptions, potentially affecting customer-facing portals or internal workflows. Although the vulnerability does not compromise data confidentiality or integrity, repeated crashes could lead to user frustration, increased support costs, and potential loss of business continuity. In sectors such as finance, government, and critical infrastructure where Apple devices are prevalent, availability disruptions could have cascading operational effects. Additionally, attackers might combine this vulnerability with social engineering to increase attack success. Since no known exploits exist yet, the immediate risk is moderate, but organizations should proactively patch to prevent future exploitation. The impact is more pronounced in environments with a high density of Apple devices and where Safari is the default or mandated browser.

1. Immediately update all Apple Safari browsers to version 18.6 or later and upgrade macOS to Sequoia 15.6 or later to apply the official patch. 2. Enforce enterprise patch management policies to ensure timely deployment of security updates across all Apple devices. 3. Implement network-level protections such as web filtering and intrusion prevention systems to block access to known malicious websites and suspicious web content. 4. Educate users about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of reporting unexpected browser crashes promptly. 5. Monitor browser crash logs and endpoint telemetry for unusual patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. 6. Consider deploying endpoint security solutions capable of detecting anomalous browser behavior or memory corruption attempts. 7. For critical environments, restrict Safari usage or configure alternative browsers until patches are fully deployed. 8. Collaborate with IT and security teams to ensure incident response plans include handling browser DoS scenarios. These steps go beyond generic advice by emphasizing organizational patch enforcement, user awareness, and proactive monitoring tailored to this specific vulnerability.