CVE-2025-31187 is a vulnerability in Apple macOS that permits an application to modify protected parts of the file system, which normally should be inaccessible to user-level applications. This issue arises from insufficient access control (CWE-284) in the macOS file system protection mechanisms. The vulnerability does not require the attacker to have privileges (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as running a malicious app or opening a crafted file. The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning the attacker must have local access to the system. Exploiting this vulnerability can compromise the integrity of the system by allowing unauthorized modification of critical system files or configurations, potentially enabling persistence or further privilege escalation. The vulnerability affects unspecified versions of macOS prior to the patched releases: Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, and Sonoma 14.7.5, where Apple has removed the vulnerable code. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5 (medium), reflecting the moderate impact and exploitation complexity. No known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date. The vulnerability is significant because macOS is widely used in enterprise and creative sectors, and unauthorized file system modifications can undermine system trust and security.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-31187 includes potential compromise of system integrity on macOS endpoints. Unauthorized modification of protected file system areas could allow attackers to implant persistent malware, alter security configurations, or disrupt system operations. This can lead to data integrity issues, operational disruptions, and increased risk of further exploitation such as privilege escalation or lateral movement within networks. Organizations relying on macOS for critical operations, especially in sectors like finance, technology, media, and government, could face operational and reputational damage. The requirement for user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where users may install untrusted applications or open malicious files. The absence of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but patching remains essential to prevent future attacks.

1. Apply the latest macOS updates immediately, specifically Ventura 13.7.5, Sequoia 15.4, or Sonoma 14.7.5, which remove the vulnerable code. 2. Enforce strict application installation policies using Apple’s Gatekeeper and MDM solutions to restrict apps to those from trusted developers and the App Store. 3. Educate users about the risks of running untrusted applications or opening suspicious files to reduce the likelihood of user interaction exploitation. 4. Implement endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous file system modifications or suspicious application behavior. 5. Regularly audit system integrity and file system permissions to detect unauthorized changes. 6. Use macOS security features such as System Integrity Protection (SIP) and Full Disk Encryption to limit the impact of potential exploits. 7. Monitor security advisories from Apple and update patch management processes to respond promptly to new vulnerabilities.