CVE-2025-24122 - Intel-Based Mac Downgrade Issue and How It Was Fixed with Code-Signing Restrictions

In recent years, there has been a rise in the number of vulnerabilities being discovered and exploited in major operating systems, including macOS. Just when we thought that our Mac computers were somewhat immune to these threats, vulnerability CVE-2025-24122, a downgrade issue affecting Intel-based Mac computers, has surfaced. Fortunately, this security flaw has been addressed with additional code-signing restrictions. This long read post will provide you with in-depth information about this vulnerability, how it can potentially impact your device, and what actions have been taken to mitigate its effects.

Vulnerability Details

CVE-2025-24122 refers to a security flaw in which, under certain conditions, an app can modify protected parts of the file system. This exploit arises due to weak code-signing restrictions. The issue is particularly concerning because it affects Intel-based Mac computers running macOS Ventura 13.x.x, macOS Sequoia 15.x.x, and macOS Sonoma 14.x.x.

The affected OS versions have less stringent code-signing restrictions, which pave the way for rogue applications to overwrite and tamper with system files that should remain protected. As a result, malicious apps can compromise a system's integrity, leading to unauthorized access, data theft, and even remote control of the device by cybercriminals.

Fixes and Patches Rolled Out

To address CVE-2025-24122, Apple has released updates to the affected macOS versions, strengthening the code-signing restrictions that were previously weak. The fixed versions are macOS Ventura 13.7.3, macOS Sequoia 15.3, and macOS Sonoma 14.7.3. These updates provide more stringent code-signing requirements that make it more difficult for malicious apps to modify the protected areas of the file system.

These updates ensure that system files and user data remain secure and that unauthorized tampering and corruption are prevented. Below is a code snippet demonstrating the additional code-signing restrictions:

// Before the update (weak code-signing restriction)
if authorizedApp() {
   modifySystemFiles()
}

// After the update (strong code-signing restriction)
if authorizedApp() && meetsCodeSigningRestrictions() {
   modifySystemFiles()
}

In this code snippet, the authorizedApp() function checks if an app has the appropriate permissions to modify system files. Before the update, only this check was in place. The updated version adds a new function, meetsCodeSigningRestrictions(), to ensure that an app also meets the tightened code-signing requirements before permission is granted to modify the file system.

We highly recommend that users update their systems to these patched versions to protect their devices and data from CVE-2025-24122 exploitation. To download the latest update, visit the corresponding link:
- macOS Ventura 13.7.3
- macOS Sequoia 15.3
- macOS Sonoma 14.7.3

Conclusion

Vulnerabilities such as CVE-2025-24122 can significantly impact the security of your Mac computer and personal data. It is crucial to remain vigilant and take the necessary steps to safeguard your devices by updating your operating system to the latest, most secure version.

By addressing CVE-2025-24122 with additional code-signing restrictions, Apple has ensured that its macOS remains one of the most secure operating systems available to its users. However, as technology continues to advance, so too will malware and cyber threats, making it all the more important to stay attentive and informed.

For more information on this vulnerability, refer to the official CVE record and Apple security update documentation.

Timeline

Published on: 01/27/2025 22:15:17 UTC
Last modified on: 03/03/2025 22:45:38 UTC