CVE-2025-24231 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that allows an application to modify protected parts of the file system without requiring any privileges, user interaction, or authentication. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-787, which typically involves out-of-bounds writes or memory corruption issues that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system compromise. The flaw exists in macOS versions prior to Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, and Sonoma 14.7.5, where Apple has implemented improved validation checks to prevent unauthorized file system modifications. The vulnerability's CVSS 3.1 base score is 9.8, reflecting its critical nature with network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Exploiting this vulnerability could allow a malicious app to overwrite or alter system files, potentially leading to privilege escalation, persistent malware installation, or system instability. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild, the vulnerability's characteristics make it a prime target for attackers aiming to compromise macOS systems. The vulnerability affects all unspecified versions prior to the patched releases, indicating a broad impact across macOS users. The fix involves enhanced checks within the operating system to restrict unauthorized file system modifications by applications, thereby restoring the integrity of protected system areas.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-24231 is significant due to the potential for complete system compromise without any user interaction or privileges. Confidentiality is at risk as attackers could access or modify sensitive data stored on macOS devices. Integrity is compromised because attackers can alter protected system files, potentially implanting persistent malware or backdoors. Availability may also be affected if critical system files are corrupted, leading to system crashes or denial of service. Organizations relying on macOS for critical business operations, intellectual property management, or sensitive communications face heightened risks. The vulnerability could facilitate lateral movement within networks if attackers gain footholds on macOS endpoints. Additionally, sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology in Europe, which often use macOS devices, may experience operational disruptions or data breaches. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for proactive patching, but the ease of exploitation and critical severity mean that unpatched systems remain highly vulnerable to future attacks.

European organizations should immediately prioritize patching all macOS devices to versions Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, or Sonoma 14.7.5 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. Implement strict application control policies to limit installation of untrusted or unsigned applications, reducing the risk of malicious apps exploiting this flaw. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring file system changes and anomalous app behavior to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regularly audit macOS systems for unauthorized modifications to protected file system areas. Educate users on the risks of installing apps from unverified sources and enforce the use of Apple’s notarization and Gatekeeper features. Network segmentation can limit the spread of an attacker who compromises a macOS device. Maintain up-to-date backups to recover from potential data corruption or ransomware attacks stemming from exploitation. Finally, monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit code or attack campaigns targeting this vulnerability to adapt defenses accordingly.