CVE-2025-31227 is a logic vulnerability affecting Apple iOS and iPadOS devices that allows an attacker with physical access to potentially retrieve deleted call recordings. The issue arises from insufficient validation checks in the system's handling of deleted call recording data, which may remain accessible despite being marked as deleted. This vulnerability does not require any user interaction or authentication, but physical possession of the device is mandatory. The flaw was addressed by Apple in iOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5 through improved logic checks to ensure deleted recordings are properly inaccessible. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.6 (medium severity), reflecting the limited attack vector (physical access) but high confidentiality impact since sensitive call recordings could be exposed. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-863 (Incorrect Authorization), indicating that the system failed to enforce proper access control on deleted data remnants. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and the affected versions are unspecified but presumably all versions prior to iOS/iPadOS 18.5. This vulnerability highlights risks related to residual data on mobile devices and the importance of secure deletion mechanisms for sensitive information.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a confidentiality risk primarily in scenarios where devices are lost, stolen, or temporarily accessed by unauthorized individuals. Organizations handling sensitive communications, such as legal firms, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and government agencies, could face exposure of confidential call recordings if devices are not physically secured. The impact is heightened for organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies or those issuing iOS/iPadOS devices to employees without strict physical security controls. Although the vulnerability does not allow remote exploitation, the potential leakage of sensitive call data could lead to privacy violations, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR), reputational damage, and potential legal consequences. The medium severity score reflects that while the attack requires physical access, the confidentiality impact is significant due to the nature of the data involved.

European organizations should implement strict physical security policies for mobile devices, including mandatory use of strong device passcodes, biometric locks, and automatic device lock timeouts to reduce unauthorized physical access. Devices should be encrypted using Apple’s built-in encryption features to protect data at rest. Organizations must ensure all devices are updated promptly to iOS/iPadOS 18.5 or later to apply the fix. Additionally, organizations should consider deploying Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, remotely wipe lost or stolen devices, and monitor device compliance. Training employees on the risks of physical device loss and secure handling of sensitive data is critical. For highly sensitive environments, organizations might restrict call recording features or implement additional application-level encryption for call recordings. Regular audits of device security posture and incident response plans for lost/stolen devices should be established to minimize exposure.