CVE-2025-31279 is a critical vulnerability identified in Apple iPadOS and related macOS versions that allows an application to fingerprint the user without requiring any permissions or user interaction. The vulnerability stems from a permissions issue that was insufficiently restrictive, enabling apps to gather unique device or user characteristics that can be used to track or identify users across sessions and potentially across different applications. This type of fingerprinting can compromise user privacy by exposing identifiable information without explicit consent. The vulnerability affects iPadOS 17.7.9 and macOS versions Sequoia 15.6, Sonoma 14.7.7, and Ventura 13.7.7, with earlier versions presumably vulnerable. The CVSS v3.1 score of 9.8 (critical) reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with an attack vector that is network-based, requires no privileges, and no user interaction, making exploitation relatively straightforward. The underlying weakness is categorized under CWE-200 (Exposure of Sensitive Information to an Unauthorized Actor). Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the potential for abuse is significant given the widespread use of Apple devices and the stealthy nature of fingerprinting attacks. Apple has addressed this issue by implementing additional restrictions on permissions to prevent unauthorized fingerprinting.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant privacy and security risk, particularly for sectors that rely heavily on Apple devices such as education, healthcare, finance, and government. Fingerprinting can lead to unauthorized tracking of users, potentially exposing sensitive personal or corporate information and violating privacy regulations such as the GDPR. The ability to fingerprint without user consent undermines trust in device security and can facilitate targeted attacks, profiling, or surveillance. Additionally, the compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability as indicated by the CVSS score suggests that the vulnerability could be leveraged as part of more complex attack chains, potentially leading to data breaches or disruption of services. Organizations with remote or mobile workforces using iPads or Macs are especially vulnerable, as attackers could exploit this flaw remotely without user interaction. The stealthy nature of fingerprinting also complicates detection and incident response efforts.

European organizations should prioritize updating affected Apple devices to the patched versions: iPadOS 17.7.9 and macOS Sequoia 15.6, Sonoma 14.7.7, and Ventura 13.7.7. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict mobile device management (MDM) policies to control app installations and permissions, restricting apps to only those from trusted sources and minimizing app capabilities that could facilitate fingerprinting. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual outbound traffic patterns that may indicate fingerprinting or data exfiltration attempts. User awareness training should emphasize the risks of installing untrusted apps and the importance of timely updates. Privacy-enhancing technologies such as VPNs and browser privacy settings can help reduce fingerprinting risks. Additionally, organizations should audit their compliance with GDPR and other privacy regulations to ensure that any potential data exposure due to fingerprinting is addressed and reported as required. Finally, engaging with Apple support channels for enterprise customers can provide additional guidance and early warnings about related threats.