CVE-2025-24252 is a use-after-free vulnerability categorized under CWE-416, affecting multiple Apple operating systems including iOS, iPadOS, macOS (Sequoia, Sonoma, Ventura), tvOS, and visionOS. The vulnerability arises from improper memory management that allows an attacker positioned on the same local network segment to corrupt process memory of targeted devices. This corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution or denial of service, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it easier to exploit in local network environments such as corporate or public Wi-Fi. Apple has released patches in versions iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4 and 17.7.6, macOS 15.4, 14.7.5, 13.7.5, tvOS 18.4, and visionOS 2.4 to address this issue by improving memory management. Although no active exploits have been reported, the vulnerability’s characteristics and CVSS score of 8.8 indicate a high risk. The flaw could be leveraged by attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause system crashes, potentially enabling lateral movement or data breaches within local networks.

The impact of CVE-2025-24252 is significant for organizations relying on Apple devices within local network environments. Successful exploitation can lead to full compromise of affected devices, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of services, and potential spread of malware. Since the vulnerability requires no authentication or user interaction, attackers can silently exploit it to gain control or disrupt operations. This poses a risk to enterprise environments, government agencies, and any organization with Apple device deployments on shared networks. The ability to corrupt process memory can also facilitate privilege escalation or persistent compromise. The vulnerability’s network-based attack vector increases the risk in environments with untrusted or poorly segmented local networks, such as public Wi-Fi hotspots or large corporate LANs. Failure to patch promptly could result in data breaches, operational downtime, and reputational damage.

Organizations should immediately prioritize updating all affected Apple devices to the patched OS versions: iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4 and 17.7.6, macOS Sequoia 15.4, Sonoma 14.7.5, Ventura 13.7.5, tvOS 18.4, and visionOS 2.4. Beyond patching, network segmentation should be enforced to limit local network exposure of critical Apple devices. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on local networks to detect anomalous traffic patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. Disable unnecessary local network services on Apple devices to reduce attack surface. Employ network intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) tuned to detect suspicious memory corruption or exploitation behaviors. Educate users about risks of connecting to untrusted Wi-Fi networks and enforce use of VPNs for remote access. Regularly audit device OS versions and compliance to ensure timely patch deployment. Consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of identifying exploitation attempts targeting memory corruption vulnerabilities.