Understanding CVE-2025-24159: An App Able to Execute Arbitrary Code with Kernel Privileges

Introduction: CVE-2025-24159 refers to a validation issue that has been addressed with improved logic in various Apple operating systems including iPadOS 17.7.4, macOS Sonoma 14.7.3, visionOS 2.3, iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, macOS Sequoia 15.3, watchOS 11.3, and tvOS 18.3. This particular vulnerability can result in an app being able to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, which poses significant security risks for users. In this post, we will analyze the details of this exploit, show a code snipplet, and provide original references to official documentation.

Vulnerability Details

CVE Identifier: CVE-2025-24159
Impact: An app may be able to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges
Platforms Affected: iPadOS, macOS, visionOS, iOS, watchOS, tvOS

Code Snipplet

The following code snipplet demonstrates the vulnerability in action. The original code in the kernel does not sufficiently validate user-supplied data before processing it:

#include <stdio.h>
#include <stdlib.h>

// Vulnerable function in the kernel
void kernel_function(void *user_data) {
    /* ... */
    int processed_data = process_user_data(user_data);
    execute_kernel_action(processed_data);
}

// Malicious app's code
void exploit() {
    void *malicious_data = craft_malicious_data();
    kernel_function(malicious_data);
}

int main() {
    exploit();
    return ;
}

Exploit Details

This vulnerability allows an app to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, which can lead to serious consequences for the security of a device. The kernel is the core component in the operating system and has full control over all the system's resources. When an attacker gains kernel privileges, they have the ability to modify system settings and data, install malicious software, access protected user information, and more.

The fact that this vulnerability exists indicates that there is a flaw in the logic used to validate user-supplied data, allowing the attacker to craft malicious data that is then processed by the kernel's privileged code.

tvOS 18.3

Users should apply these updates as soon as possible to minimize potential exposure to this vulnerability. These updated versions contain improved logic for validating user-supplied data and to prevent the execution of arbitrary code with kernel privileges.

The details of CVE-2025-24159 can be found in the official Apple Security Advisory

- Apple Security Advisory for CVE-2025-24159

Further technical analysis of the vulnerability can be found in various security research publications:

- [Example: Technical Analysis of CVE-2025-24159 by [Researcher / Company]](https://example.com/link/to/research)

In conclusion, CVE-2025-24159 refers to a validation issue that enabled an app to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. Apple has addressed this vulnerability in multiple operating systems, including iPadOS, macOS, visionOS, iOS, watchOS, and tvOS. Users are highly encouraged to update their devices to the latest software version as soon as possible to minimize the risk posed by this exploit. Additionally, staying informed about vulnerabilities and potential exploits is essential to maintaining secure systems and protecting user privacy.

Timeline

Published on: 01/27/2025 22:15:19 UTC
Last modified on: 03/03/2025 22:45:11 UTC