CVE-2025-24207 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that stems from a permissions issue allowing an application to enable iCloud storage features without obtaining explicit user consent. This flaw violates the principle of least privilege and user control over cloud storage settings. The vulnerability affects macOS versions prior to Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, and Sonoma 14.7.5, where the system failed to enforce adequate restrictions on app permissions related to iCloud storage features. Exploitation requires no authentication or user interaction, and can be performed remotely, making it highly accessible to attackers. The CVSS v3.1 score of 9.8 reflects the vulnerability's potential to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of user data by enabling unauthorized activation of iCloud storage capabilities. This could lead to unauthorized data synchronization, data leakage, or manipulation of cloud-stored information. The underlying weakness corresponds to CWE-276 (Incorrect Default Permissions), indicating that the system's default permission settings were insufficiently restrictive. Although no known exploits have been observed in the wild, the severity and ease of exploitation make this a critical threat. Apple has addressed the issue by implementing additional permission restrictions in the specified macOS updates. Organizations relying on macOS devices, particularly those integrating iCloud for data storage or backup, must prioritize patching to mitigate the risk. Monitoring for anomalous app behavior related to iCloud features is also advisable to detect potential exploitation attempts.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses significant risks due to the potential unauthorized enabling of iCloud storage features by malicious or compromised applications. This could result in unauthorized data synchronization to iCloud, leading to data leakage of sensitive or confidential information. The integrity of data stored in iCloud could also be compromised if attackers manipulate storage settings or data synchronization processes. Availability could be affected if attackers disrupt normal iCloud storage operations or cause data loss through unauthorized changes. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, which handle sensitive personal and corporate data, are particularly vulnerable. The ability to exploit this vulnerability remotely without user interaction increases the threat level, as attackers can operate stealthily without alerting users. Furthermore, compliance with European data protection regulations like GDPR could be jeopardized if unauthorized data transfers occur, potentially resulting in legal and financial repercussions. The widespread use of Apple devices in European enterprises and among professionals amplifies the potential impact, making timely remediation critical to maintaining data security and regulatory compliance.

European organizations should immediately verify the macOS versions deployed across their environments and prioritize upgrading to macOS Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, or Sonoma 14.7.5 where applicable. Implement strict application whitelisting and code-signing enforcement to limit the installation and execution of unauthorized or untrusted applications that could exploit this vulnerability. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for unusual behaviors related to iCloud storage feature activation or changes in cloud synchronization settings. Conduct regular audits of user permissions and cloud storage configurations to ensure no unauthorized changes have occurred. Educate users about the risks of installing unverified applications and encourage vigilance regarding unexpected changes in iCloud settings. Integrate macOS security updates into automated patch management workflows to reduce the window of exposure. For organizations using mobile device management (MDM), enforce policies that restrict app permissions related to cloud storage features. Finally, maintain comprehensive logging and alerting on macOS devices to detect potential exploitation attempts promptly.