CVE-2025-31229 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS operating systems, specifically related to the VoiceOver accessibility feature. The flaw stems from a logic issue (CWE-261) that causes the device passcode to be read aloud by VoiceOver, potentially exposing sensitive authentication credentials. This vulnerability affects versions prior to iOS and iPadOS 18.6, where Apple has implemented improved checks to prevent this unintended behavior. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.1, indicating critical severity, with an attack vector that is network-based (AV:N), requiring no privileges (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacting confidentiality and availability severely (C:H/A:H). The flaw allows an attacker to remotely extract the passcode without authentication or user interaction, which could lead to unauthorized device access, data leakage, and denial of service through lockout or other means. Although no public exploits are currently known, the nature of the vulnerability suggests it could be leveraged in targeted attacks, especially against users relying on VoiceOver for accessibility. The issue highlights the risks of accessibility features inadvertently exposing sensitive information if not properly secured. The patch in iOS/iPadOS 18.6 addresses the logic flaw by implementing stricter validation and checks to prevent passcode disclosure via VoiceOver. Organizations using Apple mobile devices should consider this vulnerability critical and apply updates promptly to mitigate the risk.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-31229 is significant due to the widespread use of Apple iOS and iPadOS devices in both consumer and enterprise environments. The vulnerability compromises the confidentiality of device passcodes, potentially allowing attackers to bypass device security controls and gain unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data, communications, and applications. This can lead to data breaches, intellectual property theft, and disruption of business operations. The availability impact is also high, as attackers could lock users out or cause denial of service. Organizations that support employees with disabilities who rely on VoiceOver are particularly vulnerable, as disabling the feature may not be feasible. The risk extends to sectors with high-value targets such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, where device compromise could have cascading effects. Additionally, the vulnerability could be exploited in physical or proximity-based attacks where an adversary can listen to the device audio output. Given the critical severity and ease of exploitation, European organizations must prioritize remediation to protect their mobile device fleets and sensitive information.

1. Immediately update all affected Apple devices to iOS and iPadOS version 18.6 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. 2. Review and restrict the use of VoiceOver and other accessibility features on devices that handle sensitive information, especially in high-risk environments. 3. Implement physical security controls to prevent unauthorized access to devices and their audio outputs, including restricting device use in public or untrusted spaces. 4. Educate users about the risks of using accessibility features that may expose sensitive information and encourage reporting of suspicious device behavior. 5. Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce update policies, restrict feature usage, and monitor device configurations. 6. Consider additional authentication layers such as biometric verification or hardware security modules to reduce reliance on passcodes alone. 7. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focused on accessibility features and their potential information leakage. 8. Coordinate with Apple support and security advisories to stay informed about any further updates or related vulnerabilities.