CVE-2025-24266 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Apple macOS, classified as a buffer overflow (CWE-120). The flaw stems from inadequate bounds checking in system components, which allows a malicious application to trigger unexpected system termination, potentially leading to denial of service or further exploitation. The vulnerability affects multiple macOS versions prior to Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, and Sonoma 14.7.5, where the issue has been fixed. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8 reflects the high severity, with attack vector being network accessible (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction needed (UI:N). The scope is unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). This means an attacker can remotely execute code or cause system crashes without authentication or user involvement. While no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability's characteristics make it a prime target for attackers aiming to disrupt systems or gain unauthorized control. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited by any app, including those downloaded from the internet or potentially through malicious websites leveraging app vulnerabilities. The buffer overflow nature suggests that memory corruption could be leveraged for arbitrary code execution beyond just system termination. Given Apple's widespread use in enterprise and creative industries, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to organizations relying on macOS infrastructure.

For European organizations, CVE-2025-24266 presents a critical risk to system stability and security. The ability for an unauthenticated app to cause unexpected system termination can lead to denial of service, disrupting business operations, especially in sectors relying heavily on macOS such as media, design, software development, and education. Furthermore, the high impact on confidentiality and integrity indicates potential for data breaches or unauthorized system control if the buffer overflow is leveraged for remote code execution. This could compromise sensitive corporate data, intellectual property, and customer information. The lack of required privileges or user interaction lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the likelihood of exploitation in the wild once proof-of-concept code becomes available. Disruptions could affect critical infrastructure, financial services, and government agencies using macOS systems. Additionally, the vulnerability could be exploited as a foothold for lateral movement within networks, amplifying the risk of widespread compromise. The impact is magnified in environments with mixed OS deployments where macOS systems interface with critical Windows or Linux servers.

European organizations should immediately prioritize patching all affected macOS systems to versions Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, or Sonoma 14.7.5 or later. Beyond patching, organizations should enforce strict application control policies, limiting app installations to trusted sources such as the Apple App Store or enterprise-signed applications. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of monitoring for anomalous app behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. Network segmentation should be used to isolate macOS systems from critical infrastructure to limit lateral movement. Regularly audit installed applications and remove unnecessary or untrusted software. Implement strict user privilege management to minimize the impact of potential exploits. Educate users about the risks of installing unverified apps and encourage prompt reporting of unusual system behavior. Additionally, monitor security advisories from Apple and threat intelligence feeds for emerging exploit information. For organizations using mobile device management (MDM), enforce automated patch deployment and compliance reporting to ensure rapid remediation.