CVE-2025-24244 is a vulnerability identified in Apple tvOS and other Apple operating systems such as macOS Ventura, iOS, and iPadOS. The root cause is improper memory handling during the processing of font files. When a maliciously crafted font is processed by the system, it may lead to unintended disclosure of process memory contents. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-200 (Exposure of Sensitive Information to an Unauthorized Actor). The vulnerability requires local access and user interaction (e.g., opening or rendering a malicious font file), but no elevated privileges are needed, making exploitation moderately difficult but feasible. The CVSS v3.1 score is 5.5 (medium severity), reflecting the high confidentiality impact but no impact on integrity or availability. Apple has fixed this issue in multiple OS versions, including tvOS 18.4 and macOS Ventura 13.7.5, by improving memory handling during font processing. No public exploits or active exploitation in the wild have been reported to date. The vulnerability primarily risks leakage of sensitive information from process memory, which could include cryptographic keys, user data, or other confidential information residing in memory at the time of exploitation. This vulnerability affects Apple TV devices and other Apple platforms that process font files, potentially impacting users who open or display maliciously crafted fonts.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-24244 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information residing in process memory on Apple devices, particularly Apple TV units used in corporate or public environments. This could lead to leakage of confidential data such as credentials, encryption keys, or proprietary information if exploited. Although the vulnerability does not allow code execution or system compromise, the confidentiality breach could facilitate further attacks or data leaks. Organizations relying on Apple TV for digital signage, presentations, or media streaming in offices or public spaces may be at risk if users interact with untrusted font files or content. The vulnerability also affects other Apple platforms, so enterprises with mixed Apple device environments should consider the broader risk. Given the requirement for user interaction and local access, the threat is more relevant in scenarios where an attacker can trick users into opening malicious content or has physical or remote access to devices. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the need for timely patching. Failure to address this vulnerability could result in data confidentiality breaches, regulatory compliance issues under GDPR, and reputational damage.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigation measures: 1) Deploy the latest Apple security updates promptly, specifically tvOS 18.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, and corresponding iOS/iPadOS versions to ensure the vulnerability is patched. 2) Restrict the installation and opening of untrusted font files or content on Apple devices, especially Apple TV units used in corporate environments. 3) Implement strict content filtering and validation on media sources that feed Apple TV devices to prevent malicious font files from being delivered. 4) Educate users about the risks of opening unknown or suspicious font files or media content that could contain embedded fonts. 5) Monitor Apple device usage logs for unusual activity or attempts to load unexpected fonts. 6) For organizations using Apple TV in public or shared spaces, consider network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure. 7) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous memory access patterns or font processing anomalies on Apple devices. 8) Maintain an inventory of Apple devices and ensure compliance with patch management policies. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling font file sources, user awareness, and device-specific protections.