CVE-2025-24206 is a high-severity authentication bypass vulnerability affecting Apple tvOS and other Apple operating systems including macOS Sequoia 15.4, tvOS 18.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, iPadOS 17.7.6, macOS Sonoma 14.7.5, iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and visionOS 2.4. The vulnerability arises from improper state management in the authentication process, allowing an attacker on the local network to bypass authentication policies without requiring any privileges or user interaction. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.7, reflecting high impact on confidentiality and integrity but no impact on availability. The attack vector is local network (AV:L), meaning the attacker must have access to the same network segment as the target device. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-288 (Authentication Bypass Using an Alternate Path or Channel). Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the flaw allows unauthorized access to potentially sensitive functions or data on affected Apple devices, particularly Apple TV devices running tvOS. The issue was addressed by Apple through improved state management in authentication flows in the specified OS versions. Since the affected versions are unspecified, it is prudent to assume all versions prior to these patched releases are vulnerable. This vulnerability could allow attackers to circumvent authentication controls, leading to unauthorized access to device features or data, potentially compromising user privacy and security within local network environments.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially in environments where Apple devices such as Apple TVs, Macs, iPads, or iPhones are deployed and connected to corporate or home networks. The ability to bypass authentication without user interaction or privileges could allow lateral movement or unauthorized access to sensitive information displayed or stored on these devices. In sectors like media, education, corporate meeting rooms, and smart office environments where Apple TV is commonly used, attackers could exploit this flaw to intercept communications, manipulate device settings, or gain footholds for further network intrusion. The confidentiality and integrity of data accessed or transmitted via these devices could be compromised. Given the local network attack vector, organizations with less segmented or poorly secured internal networks are at higher risk. This vulnerability also raises concerns for remote working scenarios where home networks may be less secure, increasing the attack surface. Although availability is not impacted, the breach of authentication can lead to significant operational and reputational damage, especially if sensitive corporate or personal data is exposed or altered.

European organizations should prioritize updating all affected Apple devices to the patched OS versions listed by Apple (e.g., tvOS 18.4, macOS Sequoia 15.4, etc.) as soon as possible to remediate this vulnerability. Network segmentation should be enforced to isolate Apple devices from critical infrastructure and sensitive data repositories, limiting the potential impact of a local network attacker. Implementing strong Wi-Fi security protocols (WPA3 where possible) and monitoring for unusual local network activity can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also review and tighten authentication policies and access controls on Apple devices, disabling unnecessary services and features that could be leveraged by attackers. For environments using Apple TVs in conference rooms or public areas, consider restricting network access or using dedicated VLANs. Regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focusing on local network attack vectors can help identify residual risks. User awareness training should emphasize the importance of securing home and office networks, especially when using Apple devices susceptible to local network attacks. Finally, logging and monitoring Apple device authentication events can provide early indicators of attempted exploitation.