CVE-2025-24241 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS that stems from a configuration issue allowing malicious applications to deceive users into copying sensitive data to the system pasteboard (clipboard). The pasteboard is a shared resource used for copy-paste operations across applications, and unauthorized access or manipulation can lead to significant data leakage. This vulnerability does not require any privileges or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as any app running on the system could exploit it silently. The flaw affects multiple macOS versions prior to Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, and Sonoma 14.7.5, where Apple has implemented additional restrictions to mitigate the issue. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8 reflects the vulnerability's critical nature, with attack vector being network accessible (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). The CWE-284 classification indicates an authorization bypass or improper access control issue. While no known exploits have been reported in the wild, the potential for data exfiltration and system compromise is substantial, especially in environments where sensitive information is handled. The vulnerability highlights the risks associated with clipboard data exposure and the need for strict control over inter-application data sharing on macOS platforms.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk of sensitive data leakage through unauthorized clipboard access. Enterprises handling confidential information, such as financial institutions, healthcare providers, and government agencies, could suffer breaches of personal data, intellectual property, or classified information. The critical severity and ease of exploitation mean attackers could deploy malicious apps or scripts to silently capture clipboard contents without user awareness, potentially leading to data theft, fraud, or espionage. The integrity and availability of systems could also be compromised if attackers manipulate clipboard data to inject malicious commands or disrupt workflows. Given the widespread use of macOS in sectors like creative industries, technology firms, and academia across Europe, the threat surface is broad. Additionally, compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations could be jeopardized if clipboard data containing personal information is exposed. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the risk remains high until all vulnerable systems are patched.

European organizations should immediately prioritize updating all macOS systems to versions Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, or Sonoma 14.7.5 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict application control policies to limit installation of untrusted or unsigned apps that could exploit clipboard access. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring clipboard activity and alerting on anomalous behavior. Educate users about the risks of copying sensitive data and encourage minimizing clipboard use for confidential information. Employ macOS security features such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and sandboxing to reduce app capabilities. Consider deploying mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security configurations and automate patch management. Regularly audit installed applications and their permissions related to clipboard access. For highly sensitive environments, explore disabling clipboard sharing features where feasible or using third-party tools that provide enhanced clipboard security controls. Finally, maintain up-to-date incident response plans to quickly address any suspected exploitation.