CVE-2025-54525: 
vulnerability analysis and mitigation

CVE-2024-54525 is a logic vulnerability discovered in Apple's operating systems that was disclosed on March 17, 2025. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple operating systems including visionOS 2.2, watchOS 11.2, tvOS 18.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2, iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2. The issue involves improper file handling that could allow malicious actors to modify protected system files through crafted backup files (Apple Support).

The vulnerability stems from a logic issue in the MobileBackup component that was addressed with improved file handling. The issue has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.8 (HIGH) with the vector string CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, indicating it can be exploited remotely with low attack complexity and requires user interaction. The vulnerability is classified as CWE-434 (Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type) (NVD).

If exploited, this vulnerability allows an attacker to modify protected system files through a maliciously crafted backup file. This could potentially lead to unauthorized system modifications and compromise the integrity of the affected device (Apple Support).

Apple has addressed this vulnerability by releasing security updates for all affected operating systems. The fix is included in visionOS 2.2, watchOS 11.2, tvOS 18.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2, iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2. Users are advised to update their devices to these versions to protect against potential exploitation (Apple Support).

The vulnerability was discovered through cooperative efforts by Andrew James Gonzalez, Dragon Fruit Security (Davis Dai, ORAC 落云, Frank Du) (Apple Support).