CVE-2025-31280 is a high-severity memory corruption vulnerability affecting Apple macOS systems. The flaw arises from improper validation when processing specially crafted files, which can lead to heap corruption. Heap corruption vulnerabilities occur when an attacker manipulates dynamic memory allocations, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution, privilege escalation, or system crashes. This particular vulnerability is identified as CWE-122 (Heap-based Buffer Overflow). The issue was addressed by Apple through improved validation mechanisms in macOS Sequoia 15.6, indicating that earlier versions remain vulnerable. According to the CVSS v3.1 vector (AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H), exploitation requires local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but user interaction is necessary (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the potential for significant damage exists if exploited. The vulnerability could be triggered by opening or processing a maliciously crafted file, which may be delivered via email, removable media, or other local vectors. The lack of specified affected versions suggests that multiple macOS releases prior to 15.6 could be impacted. This vulnerability is critical for environments where macOS devices are used, especially if users might open untrusted files locally.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, particularly in sectors where macOS devices are prevalent, such as creative industries, software development, and certain corporate environments. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data theft, or disruption of services. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as phishing or social engineering could induce users to open malicious files. Confidentiality breaches could expose sensitive corporate or personal data, while integrity and availability impacts could disrupt business operations. Given the high impact on all three security dimensions, organizations relying on macOS endpoints must consider this vulnerability a priority. Additionally, the absence of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for proactive patching and mitigation before active attacks emerge.

European organizations should prioritize updating all macOS systems to version Sequoia 15.6 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. Until patching is complete, implement strict endpoint protection measures including application whitelisting to restrict execution of untrusted files, and enhanced user awareness training to reduce the risk of opening malicious files. Employ network segmentation to limit local access to critical macOS devices and monitor for unusual local file processing activities. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting heap corruption or anomalous behaviors related to file processing. Disable or restrict the use of file types or applications known to be vectors for this vulnerability where feasible. Regularly audit and inventory macOS devices to ensure compliance with patching policies. Since exploitation requires user interaction, reinforce phishing defenses and simulate social engineering attacks to improve user vigilance.