CVE-2025-31226 is a vulnerability identified in Apple tvOS that arises from a logic flaw in the image processing component. Specifically, when the system processes a maliciously crafted image file, it may trigger a denial-of-service condition by exhausting resources or causing the system to crash. This issue affects multiple Apple operating systems, including tvOS, watchOS, iPadOS, iOS, macOS Sequoia, and visionOS, with patches released in versions tvOS 18.5, watchOS 11.5, iPadOS 17.7.7, iOS 18.5, macOS Sequoia 15.5, and visionOS 2.5. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-400, which relates to uncontrolled resource consumption leading to DoS. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring the attacker to have local access to the device, and user interaction (UI:R) is necessary to trigger the vulnerability, such as opening or processing the crafted image. The vulnerability does not compromise confidentiality or integrity but impacts availability by causing system crashes or resource exhaustion. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, indicating limited immediate risk but potential for future exploitation if unpatched. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5, reflecting a medium severity level due to the combination of attack complexity, required user interaction, and impact scope. The root cause was addressed by Apple through improved validation and logic checks in the image processing routines.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-31226 is the potential denial-of-service on Apple TV devices, which could disrupt media streaming, digital signage, or other services relying on these devices. While the vulnerability does not expose sensitive data or allow code execution, service availability interruptions could affect business operations, particularly in sectors such as retail, hospitality, and corporate environments where Apple TV is used for presentations or customer engagement. The requirement for local access and user interaction limits remote exploitation risk but insider threats or social engineering could still trigger the DoS. Organizations with large deployments of Apple devices, including Apple TV, may face operational downtime or require incident response efforts to restore service. Additionally, the vulnerability affects multiple Apple OS platforms, so organizations using a mixed Apple ecosystem should ensure comprehensive patching to avoid cascading disruptions. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate future risk, especially as attackers develop new techniques.

European organizations should prioritize updating all affected Apple devices to the patched OS versions: tvOS 18.5, watchOS 11.5, iPadOS 17.7.7, iOS 18.5, macOS Sequoia 15.5, and visionOS 2.5. Implement strict access controls to limit local access to Apple TV devices, including physical security and user account restrictions, to reduce the risk of malicious image processing. Educate users about the risks of opening untrusted image files or media content on Apple devices to prevent inadvertent triggering of the vulnerability. Monitor Apple TV and related device logs for unusual crashes or resource exhaustion symptoms that may indicate exploitation attempts. Consider network segmentation for Apple TV devices to isolate them from critical infrastructure and limit potential impact. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of identifying abnormal application behavior on Apple devices. Maintain an inventory of Apple devices in use to ensure all are identified and patched promptly. Finally, stay informed on updates from Apple and cybersecurity advisories for any emerging exploit information or additional mitigations.