CVE-2025-24230 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability classified under CWE-125 that affects Apple’s iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, visionOS, and watchOS platforms. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation when processing audio files, allowing a specially crafted malicious audio file to trigger an out-of-bounds read operation. This memory access violation can cause unexpected termination of the affected application, leading to denial of service. The vulnerability does not require any privileges or user interaction to exploit, making it remotely exploitable simply by playing or processing a malicious audio file. Apple has released patches in multiple OS versions including iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4 and 17.7.6, macOS Sequoia 15.4, Sonoma 14.7.5, Ventura 13.7.5, tvOS 18.4, visionOS 2.4, and watchOS 11.4 to address this issue by improving input validation. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8 reflects the critical nature of the vulnerability, with attack vector being network-based, no required privileges or user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. While no exploits have been reported in the wild yet, the vulnerability’s characteristics make it a high-risk threat that could be leveraged for denial of service or as a stepping stone for further attacks.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-24230 is the potential for denial of service through unexpected app termination on affected Apple devices. This can disrupt normal operations for users and organizations relying on these platforms, potentially affecting critical business or personal applications. Given the vulnerability affects multiple Apple operating systems, the scope is broad, impacting mobile devices, desktops, smart TVs, wearable devices, and emerging platforms like visionOS. The out-of-bounds read could also be leveraged by attackers to execute further memory corruption exploits, potentially leading to code execution or data leakage, although this has not been confirmed. The ease of exploitation without requiring privileges or user interaction increases the risk of widespread attacks, especially in environments where malicious audio files can be delivered via email, messaging apps, or web content. Organizations with large deployments of Apple devices, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, could face operational disruptions and increased risk of targeted attacks if patches are not applied promptly.

Organizations should immediately prioritize updating all affected Apple devices to the patched OS versions: iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4 and 17.7.6, macOS Sequoia 15.4, Sonoma 14.7.5, Ventura 13.7.5, tvOS 18.4, visionOS 2.4, and watchOS 11.4. Until patches are applied, restrict or monitor the receipt and playback of audio files from untrusted sources, including email attachments, messaging apps, and web downloads. Employ network-level protections such as filtering or sandboxing potentially malicious media content. Use endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous app crashes or suspicious media processing behavior. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited audio files and encourage cautious behavior. For high-security environments, consider disabling automatic playback of media files or using application whitelisting to limit vulnerable apps. Monitor security advisories for any emerging exploit reports and be prepared to implement additional containment or incident response measures if exploitation attempts are detected.