CVE-2025-24243 is a vulnerability in Apple tvOS that arises from improper memory handling when processing certain crafted files, enabling an attacker to execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-94, indicating issues related to improper control over code generation or execution. Exploitation requires the victim to interact with a malicious file, which could be delivered via various vectors such as malicious media files or network downloads. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.8 reflects a high-severity rating, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction required (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). This means an attacker with local access and the ability to trick a user into opening a crafted file can gain full control over the affected device. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple operating systems, including tvOS 18.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, visionOS 2.4, and others, indicating a broad impact across Apple’s ecosystem. Apple has addressed the issue through improved memory handling in these updates. No known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, but the potential for arbitrary code execution makes this a critical risk for unpatched devices. The vulnerability’s exploitation could lead to data theft, device manipulation, or denial of service, severely impacting affected systems.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-24243 can be significant, particularly for those utilizing Apple TV devices for digital signage, conference room management, or media streaming in corporate environments. Successful exploitation could lead to full compromise of the device, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially pivot to other network resources, exfiltrate sensitive information, or disrupt services. Given the high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, organizations could face operational disruptions, data breaches, and reputational damage. The requirement for user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where users might open untrusted files or media. The vulnerability also affects other Apple OSes, which may be integrated into enterprise environments, increasing the attack surface. The lack of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive patching, but delayed updates could expose organizations to targeted attacks or future exploit development.

1. Immediately apply the security updates released by Apple for tvOS 18.4 and other affected OS versions to all Apple devices in the environment. 2. Implement strict controls on file sources, restricting the acceptance and opening of files from untrusted or unknown origins, especially on Apple TV devices. 3. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious media files and encourage cautious behavior to reduce the likelihood of user interaction with malicious content. 4. Monitor network traffic and device logs for unusual activity that could indicate exploitation attempts or post-exploitation behavior. 5. Employ network segmentation to isolate Apple TV devices from critical infrastructure and sensitive data repositories to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 6. Consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring Apple devices for anomalous behavior related to code execution. 7. Maintain an up-to-date inventory of Apple devices and ensure timely patch management processes are in place to address future vulnerabilities promptly.