CVE-2025-24157
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes a buffer overflow vulnerability in macOS kernel memory handling that could allow a malicious application to cause system crashes or corrupt kernel memory. It affects macOS Ventura, Sequoia, and Sonoma systems running older versions. The vulnerability requires local application execution to exploit.
💻 Affected Systems
- macOS
📦 What is this software?
Macos by Apple
macOS is Apple's desktop and laptop operating system powering Mac computers used by millions of professionals, developers, creative professionals, and enterprise users worldwide. Built on a Unix foundation with the Darwin kernel and modern Cocoa frameworks, macOS delivers a seamless ecosystem integr...
Learn more about Macos →Macos by Apple
macOS is Apple's desktop and laptop operating system powering Mac computers used by millions of professionals, developers, creative professionals, and enterprise users worldwide. Built on a Unix foundation with the Darwin kernel and modern Cocoa frameworks, macOS delivers a seamless ecosystem integr...
Learn more about Macos →Macos by Apple
macOS is Apple's desktop and laptop operating system powering Mac computers used by millions of professionals, developers, creative professionals, and enterprise users worldwide. Built on a Unix foundation with the Darwin kernel and modern Cocoa frameworks, macOS delivers a seamless ecosystem integr...
Learn more about Macos →⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Kernel memory corruption leading to system instability, denial of service, or potential privilege escalation if combined with other vulnerabilities.
Likely Case
Application-induced system crashes or freezes requiring reboot, potentially causing data loss or service disruption.
If Mitigated
Limited to denial of service from malicious applications; proper application vetting and sandboxing reduce impact.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires local application execution; buffer overflow exploitation typically requires specific memory manipulation knowledge.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: macOS Ventura 13.7.5, macOS Sequoia 15.4, macOS Sonoma 14.7.5
Vendor Advisory: https://support.apple.com/en-us/122373
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open System Settings > General > Software Update. 2. Install available updates. 3. Restart when prompted.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Application Restriction
macOSRestrict installation and execution of untrusted applications using macOS security controls.
sudo spctl --master-enable
sudo spctl --enable --label "Developer ID"
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict application allowlisting to prevent untrusted applications from executing
- Enable full disk encryption and regular backups to mitigate potential data loss from system crashes
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check macOS version in System Settings > General > About, or run 'sw_vers' in terminal.Check Version:
sw_versVerify Fix Applied:
Verify macOS version is Ventura 13.7.5+, Sequoia 15.4+, or Sonoma 14.7.5+.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Kernel panic logs in /Library/Logs/DiagnosticReports
- Unexpected application crashes with memory access errors
Network Indicators:
- None - local vulnerability only
SIEM Query:
source="macOS" AND (event="kernel_panic" OR event="system_crash")