CVE-2025-31216 is a security vulnerability identified in Apple iPadOS that allows an attacker with physical access to a device to override managed Wi-Fi profiles. Managed Wi-Fi profiles are typically deployed by organizations to control network access and enforce security policies on devices. The vulnerability arises from insufficient validation checks in the profile management system, which could be exploited to replace or alter these profiles without proper authorization. This could allow an attacker to redirect the device to connect to malicious Wi-Fi networks, enabling interception of sensitive data, man-in-the-middle attacks, or bypassing network access controls. The issue was addressed by Apple in iPadOS 17.7.7 and iOS 18.5 through improved validation mechanisms that prevent unauthorized profile overrides. The vulnerability requires physical access to the device, meaning remote exploitation is not feasible. There are no known public exploits or reports of exploitation in the wild as of the publication date. The lack of a CVSS score indicates that the vulnerability has not yet been fully assessed in terms of severity, but the technical details and impact suggest a significant risk in environments where managed profiles enforce critical security policies. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for enterprise and governmental organizations that rely on managed Apple devices to maintain secure network configurations and compliance.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily in environments where iPads are used with managed Wi-Fi profiles to enforce network security policies, such as government agencies, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and large enterprises. An attacker with physical access could override these profiles to connect the device to rogue Wi-Fi networks, potentially intercepting sensitive communications or injecting malicious traffic. This undermines confidentiality and integrity of data transmitted over the network. Additionally, bypassing managed profiles could allow attackers to circumvent network access restrictions, leading to further compromise of organizational resources. The requirement for physical access limits the scope but does not eliminate risk, especially in scenarios where devices are used in public or semi-public spaces, or where insider threats exist. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but organizations should consider the potential for future exploitation. The impact on availability is limited, but the compromise of network configurations can have cascading effects on overall security posture. European organizations with strict regulatory requirements for data protection and network security may face compliance challenges if devices are compromised through this vulnerability.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should prioritize updating all affected Apple devices to iPadOS 17.7.7, iOS 18.5, or later versions that include the fix. Enforcing timely patch management policies is critical. Additionally, organizations should strengthen physical security controls to limit unauthorized access to devices, including secure storage, device tracking, and user awareness training about the risks of leaving devices unattended. Implementing device encryption and strong authentication mechanisms can further reduce the risk of unauthorized configuration changes. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual Wi-Fi connections can help detect potential misuse if a device is compromised. Organizations should also review and tighten mobile device management (MDM) policies to ensure that profile deployment and changes require strong authentication and audit logging. Regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on physical security and device management practices will help identify and remediate gaps. Finally, educating users about the importance of reporting lost or stolen devices promptly can reduce exposure time.