CVE-2025-31196 is a vulnerability identified in Apple iPadOS that arises from an out-of-bounds read condition (CWE-125) when processing specially crafted files. This vulnerability allows an attacker to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) by crashing the system or, more critically, to potentially disclose sensitive memory contents, which could lead to information leakage. The root cause is insufficient input validation when handling certain file types, allowing memory outside the intended bounds to be read. Apple has addressed this issue in iPadOS 17.7.7, macOS Ventura 13.7.6, and macOS Sonoma 14.7.6 by enhancing input validation mechanisms. The CVSS v3.1 score is 5.5 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is local (AV:L), requires low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges (PR:N), but does require user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact affects availability (A:H) but not confidentiality or integrity directly (C:N, I:N). No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the vulnerability could be leveraged by an attacker who convinces a user to open a malicious file, potentially leading to system crashes or memory disclosure. This vulnerability is relevant for all iPadOS users, particularly those in environments where device stability and confidentiality are critical.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-31196 lies in potential denial-of-service conditions that could disrupt operations relying on iPadOS devices. Additionally, the possibility of memory disclosure could expose sensitive information processed or stored in memory, posing confidentiality risks. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that use iPads for sensitive communications or data processing may be particularly vulnerable. The requirement for user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where users may open untrusted files. Disruption or data leakage could lead to operational downtime, regulatory compliance issues (e.g., GDPR), and reputational damage. Since no known exploits exist yet, proactive patching can effectively mitigate these risks. However, failure to update could expose organizations to targeted attacks leveraging social engineering to deliver malicious files.

1. Immediately deploy the security updates released by Apple for iPadOS 17.7.7 and corresponding macOS versions to all affected devices within the organization. 2. Implement strict policies restricting users from opening files from untrusted or unknown sources, including email attachments and downloads. 3. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files to reduce the likelihood of social engineering exploitation. 4. Utilize mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce update compliance and restrict installation of unapproved applications or files. 5. Monitor device logs and behavior for signs of crashes or abnormal memory access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. 6. Where possible, isolate critical iPadOS devices from less secure networks to limit exposure. 7. Regularly review and audit device configurations and installed applications to minimize attack surface.