CVE-2025-24252 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 that affects Apple tvOS and several other Apple operating systems including macOS Sequoia 15.4, tvOS 18.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, iPadOS 17.7.6, macOS Sonoma 14.7.5, iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and visionOS 2.4. The vulnerability arises from improper memory management that allows an attacker on the local network to corrupt process memory, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system compromise. The flaw does not require any privileges or user interaction, making it easier to exploit for attackers who have network access. The vulnerability has been addressed by Apple through improved memory management in the specified OS versions. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.8 indicates a high severity with attack vector being adjacent network (AV:A), 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). Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the vulnerability’s characteristics suggest it could be leveraged for impactful attacks such as remote code execution or denial of service on Apple devices connected to local networks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially in environments where Apple devices such as Apple TVs, Macs, iPads, and iPhones are used extensively and connected to local networks. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access, data leakage, or disruption of services by corrupting process memory. This is particularly concerning for sectors relying on Apple ecosystems for critical operations, including media, education, healthcare, and corporate environments. The ability to exploit the vulnerability without authentication or user interaction increases the attack surface, especially in shared or poorly segmented networks. The impact extends to confidentiality, integrity, and availability, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or cause system crashes. Given the widespread use of Apple devices in Europe, failure to patch could result in targeted attacks against enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure, amplifying operational and reputational damage.

European organizations should immediately deploy the security updates released by Apple for all affected operating systems including tvOS 18.4, macOS Sequoia 15.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, macOS Sonoma 14.7.5, iPadOS 17.7.6 and 18.4, iOS 18.4, and visionOS 2.4. Network segmentation should be enforced to limit local network access to trusted devices only, reducing the attack surface. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on local networks to detect anomalous activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. Employ network-level protections such as intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) tuned to detect suspicious traffic patterns targeting Apple devices. Regularly audit and inventory Apple devices to ensure they are running patched OS versions. Educate IT staff and users about the risks of connecting to untrusted local networks and encourage the use of VPNs or secure network configurations. Consider disabling unnecessary network services on Apple devices to minimize exposure. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential compromises.