CVE-2025-24229 is a logic vulnerability in Apple macOS sandboxing that allows a sandboxed application to bypass intended access restrictions and gain unauthorized access to sensitive user data. The sandbox is a security mechanism that confines applications to a restricted environment, limiting their ability to interact with system resources and user information. This vulnerability arises from insufficient or flawed logic checks within the sandbox enforcement code, enabling a malicious or compromised sandboxed app to access data it should not be able to reach. The vulnerability affects multiple macOS versions prior to Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, and Sonoma 14.7.5, where Apple has implemented improved checks to address the issue. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.4 reflects a high severity, with an attack vector of network (AV:N), high attack complexity (AC:H), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality and integrity (C:H/I:H), but no impact on availability (A:N). This means an attacker can remotely exploit the vulnerability without authentication or user interaction, but the attack requires specific conditions or knowledge, making it moderately difficult. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control), indicating a failure to enforce proper access restrictions. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild, the potential for sensitive data exposure or manipulation is significant. Organizations relying on macOS systems, especially those running affected versions, are at risk of data breaches if this vulnerability is exploited. The fix involves applying the security updates provided by Apple in the specified macOS versions. Additional mitigation includes restricting the installation of untrusted sandboxed applications and monitoring for anomalous sandbox escape behaviors.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-24229 is primarily on the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive user data stored or processed on macOS devices. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology, which often handle sensitive personal or proprietary information, could face significant data breaches if attackers exploit this vulnerability. The ability for a sandboxed app to access data beyond its intended scope undermines the security model of macOS, potentially allowing attackers to exfiltrate confidential data or manipulate information without detection. This could lead to regulatory compliance violations under GDPR, reputational damage, and financial losses. The high attack complexity somewhat limits widespread exploitation, but targeted attacks against high-value European organizations remain a concern. The lack of required user interaction or privileges means that even non-privileged users or automated processes could be vectors for exploitation, increasing the risk surface. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as a stepping stone for more advanced attacks within compromised environments. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive defense, but organizations must act swiftly to patch and monitor their macOS endpoints.

European organizations should immediately deploy the security updates released by Apple in macOS Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, and Sonoma 14.7.5 to remediate this vulnerability. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict application control policies to limit the installation and execution of untrusted or unnecessary sandboxed applications, reducing the attack surface. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for suspicious sandbox escape attempts or anomalous access patterns indicative of exploitation. Regularly audit and review sandbox configurations and permissions to ensure they adhere to the principle of least privilege. Educate users and administrators about the risks of installing unverified software and the importance of timely updates. Network segmentation can help contain potential compromises by limiting the ability of a compromised device to access sensitive network resources. Additionally, organizations should maintain up-to-date inventories of macOS devices and their patch status to prioritize remediation efforts. Finally, consider deploying macOS-specific security tools that enhance sandbox monitoring and enforce stricter runtime protections.