CVE-2025-24211 is a critical memory corruption vulnerability affecting Apple tvOS and several other Apple operating systems including visionOS, macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. The flaw arises from improper memory handling when processing specially crafted video files, which can lead to unexpected application termination or corruption of process memory. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-400, indicating a resource exhaustion or memory handling weakness. Exploitation does not require any privileges or user interaction, making it remotely exploitable over the network if a malicious video file is processed automatically or opened by the user. The impact includes potential arbitrary code execution, denial of service, or system compromise due to corrupted memory states. Apple has addressed this issue by improving memory handling in the affected OS versions, releasing patches in tvOS 18.4, iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, macOS Sequoia 15.4, macOS Sonoma 14.7.5, and visionOS 2.4. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8, reflecting its critical nature with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the severity and ease of exploitation make timely patching essential.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Apple devices in both consumer and enterprise environments. The ability to remotely execute code or cause denial of service by simply processing a malicious video file could lead to data breaches, service disruptions, and compromise of sensitive information. Sectors such as media, entertainment, education, and corporate environments that utilize Apple tvOS devices for streaming or presentations are particularly vulnerable. The impact extends to critical infrastructure if Apple devices are integrated into operational technology or communication systems. Additionally, the lack of required privileges or user interaction lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the likelihood of exploitation. This could result in operational downtime, reputational damage, and financial losses for affected organizations.

European organizations should immediately verify the deployment of the latest Apple OS updates that address CVE-2025-24211, including tvOS 18.4, iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, macOS Sequoia 15.4, macOS Sonoma 14.7.5, and visionOS 2.4. Network-level controls should be implemented to restrict or monitor the receipt and processing of video files from untrusted sources, especially on devices running vulnerable OS versions. Employing application whitelisting and sandboxing can limit the impact of potential exploitation. Organizations should also audit and restrict the use of Apple tvOS devices in sensitive environments where possible. Regular vulnerability scanning and endpoint detection should be enhanced to detect anomalous behavior related to video processing. User awareness campaigns should emphasize caution when handling unsolicited media files. Finally, maintaining robust backup and recovery procedures will mitigate the impact of any successful exploitation.