CVE-2025-30432 is a logic vulnerability affecting Apple tvOS and other Apple operating systems such as visionOS, macOS Ventura, iPadOS, and iOS. The flaw arises from improper state management that allows a malicious application installed on the device to attempt passcode entries on a locked device. Normally, after multiple failed passcode attempts, the system enforces escalating time delays to prevent brute force attacks. However, this vulnerability enables an attacker to trigger these escalating delays artificially by repeatedly attempting passcode entries, potentially causing denial of service by locking out legitimate users or degrading device availability. The vulnerability requires low privileges (PR:L) and no user interaction (UI:N), but network access is necessary (AV:N) and the attack complexity is high (AC:H). The impact includes limited confidentiality loss, high integrity impact due to unauthorized passcode attempts, and low availability impact from induced delays. Apple has fixed this issue in tvOS 18.4, visionOS 2.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, and other related OS versions. No known exploits are reported in the wild, but the vulnerability could be leveraged by malicious apps to disrupt device usability or attempt further attacks. The underlying CWE is CWE-287 (Improper Authentication), indicating a failure in correctly enforcing authentication logic. This vulnerability highlights the importance of robust state management in authentication mechanisms on locked devices.

For European organizations, this vulnerability primarily threatens the availability and integrity of Apple devices, especially Apple TV units used in conference rooms, digital signage, or media delivery systems. Malicious apps exploiting this flaw could cause devices to become temporarily unusable due to enforced escalating delays after failed passcode attempts, disrupting business operations relying on these devices. While confidentiality impact is limited, the integrity of authentication processes is compromised, potentially allowing attackers to probe passcodes or cause lockouts. Organizations with large deployments of Apple devices in corporate or public environments may face operational disruptions. Additionally, this could be leveraged as part of a broader attack chain to gain further access or cause denial of service. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk but patching is critical to prevent future exploitation. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple OS platforms, so organizations using Apple ecosystems extensively should consider the broader impact beyond just tvOS devices.

European organizations should immediately verify and deploy the latest Apple OS updates that address CVE-2025-30432, including tvOS 18.4, visionOS 2.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, iPadOS 17.7.6, iOS 18.4, and macOS Sonoma 14.7.5. Restrict installation of untrusted or third-party applications on Apple devices to reduce the risk of malicious apps exploiting this vulnerability. Implement strict app vetting policies and use Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to control app deployment. Monitor device logs for unusual passcode attempt patterns or repeated lockouts that may indicate exploitation attempts. Educate users and administrators about the importance of applying patches promptly and recognizing signs of device lockout or abnormal behavior. Consider network segmentation to limit exposure of Apple devices to untrusted networks or users. Regularly audit device configurations and access controls to ensure compliance with security policies. Finally, maintain incident response plans that include procedures for handling device lockouts or suspected exploitation scenarios.