CVE-2025-24200 is a vulnerability identified in Apple iPadOS that allows a physical attacker to disable USB Restricted Mode on a locked device. USB Restricted Mode is a security feature designed to prevent unauthorized data access via USB connections when the device is locked, thereby protecting against data extraction or malicious peripheral attacks. The root cause of this vulnerability is an authorization flaw related to improper state management, classified under CWE-863 (Improper Authorization). This flaw enables an attacker with physical access to bypass the USB Restricted Mode, potentially allowing them to connect unauthorized USB devices or extract data without unlocking the device. The vulnerability affects iPadOS versions prior to 17.7.5 and iOS 18.3.1, where Apple has implemented fixes to improve state management and authorization checks. Exploitation does not require prior authentication or user interaction but does require physical access to the device, limiting the attack vector to targeted scenarios. Although no widespread exploitation is currently documented, Apple acknowledges reports of this vulnerability being used in extremely sophisticated attacks against specific individuals, suggesting its use in espionage or high-value targeting. The CVSS v3.1 score of 6.1 reflects a medium severity, considering the high impact on confidentiality and integrity but mitigated by the need for physical access and no impact on availability. This vulnerability highlights the importance of physical security controls and timely patching for devices in sensitive environments.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-24200 can be significant, especially for entities handling sensitive or classified information such as government agencies, defense contractors, financial institutions, and critical infrastructure operators. The ability to disable USB Restricted Mode on locked devices undermines a key security control designed to prevent data exfiltration and unauthorized device access. This can lead to unauthorized extraction of confidential data, intellectual property theft, or device manipulation, compromising both confidentiality and integrity. The physical access requirement limits the scope to targeted attacks, but insider threats or physical breaches could enable exploitation. The vulnerability does not affect availability, but the loss of data confidentiality or integrity can have severe operational and reputational consequences. Organizations relying heavily on Apple iPadOS devices for secure communications or data storage must consider this vulnerability a serious risk until devices are patched. Additionally, the reported use in sophisticated attacks indicates that threat actors with advanced capabilities may exploit this vulnerability for espionage or targeted surveillance within Europe.

European organizations should implement a multi-layered mitigation strategy beyond simply applying patches. First and foremost, ensure all Apple devices are updated to iPadOS 17.7.5, iOS 18.3.1, or later versions where the vulnerability is fixed. Enforce strict physical security controls to prevent unauthorized access to devices, including secure storage, access logging, and surveillance in sensitive areas. Deploy endpoint management solutions to monitor device compliance and detect unauthorized USB connections or device tampering. Educate employees about the risks of leaving devices unattended and the importance of reporting lost or stolen devices immediately. Consider disabling USB data connections entirely via device management policies where feasible, or use USB data blockers to prevent unauthorized data transfer. For high-risk users, implement additional hardware protections such as tamper-evident seals or secure enclosures. Regularly audit device security posture and conduct penetration testing to identify potential physical attack vectors. Finally, establish incident response plans specifically addressing physical device compromise scenarios to minimize impact.