CVE-2025-24217 is a vulnerability identified in Apple tvOS and related Apple operating systems (iOS, iPadOS, macOS Sequoia) that allows an application to access sensitive user data improperly. The root cause lies in insufficient redaction of sensitive information, classified under CWE-200 (Exposure of Sensitive Information to an Unauthorized Actor). This means that an app with limited privileges (PR:L) can bypass expected data protections and read confidential user information without requiring user interaction (UI:N). The vulnerability does not affect data integrity or system availability but compromises confidentiality. The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning the attacker must have some level of access to the device, but the attack complexity is low (AC:L), indicating that exploitation does not require advanced skills or conditions. The vulnerability was addressed by Apple in version 18.4 of tvOS and other platforms by improving the redaction mechanisms that prevent unauthorized data exposure. No public exploits have been reported, but the presence of this flaw means that malicious apps or insiders could potentially harvest sensitive data from affected devices if not patched. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions prior to 18.4, so all devices running earlier versions are at risk. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 5.5 reflects a medium severity, driven by the high confidentiality impact and the limited attack vector and privileges required.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-24217 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive user data on Apple devices, including Apple TV units used in corporate or home environments. This could lead to privacy violations, leakage of confidential corporate or personal information, and potential compliance issues with GDPR and other data protection regulations. While the vulnerability does not allow modification or destruction of data, the confidentiality breach alone can have serious reputational and legal consequences. Organizations using Apple devices for media delivery, digital signage, or employee use could see increased risk if malicious apps are installed or insider threats exploit the flaw. The lack of requirement for user interaction means that exploitation could be stealthy once local access is obtained. Given the widespread use of Apple products in Europe, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, the vulnerability could expose sensitive operational or personal data if not mitigated. However, the local attack vector limits remote exploitation, reducing the risk from external attackers without device access.

To mitigate CVE-2025-24217, European organizations should prioritize updating all affected Apple devices to tvOS 18.4 or later, as well as the corresponding iOS, iPadOS, and macOS versions that include the fix. Device management policies should enforce timely patch deployment and restrict installation of untrusted or unnecessary applications to minimize the attack surface. Implementing strict app vetting and using Apple’s enterprise management tools can help prevent malicious apps from gaining local access. Additionally, organizations should monitor device usage and access logs to detect any unusual local activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. For environments where Apple TV devices are used in shared or public spaces, physical security controls should be enhanced to prevent unauthorized local access. Finally, educating users about the risks of installing unverified apps and maintaining strong endpoint security hygiene will reduce the likelihood of exploitation.