CVE-2025-24200 Overview
An authorization issue was addressed with improved state management. This issue is fixed in iPadOS 17.7.5, iOS 18.3.1, and iPadOS 18.3.1. A physical attack may disable USB Restricted Mode on a locked device. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals.
Critical Impact
Potential for unauthorized access through physical attack vectors that disable USB Restricted Mode, specifically targeting high-value individuals.
Affected Products
- apple ipados
- apple iphone_os
Discovery Timeline
- Not Available - Vulnerability discovered by Not Available
- Not Available - Responsible disclosure to apple
- Not Available - CVE CVE-2025-24200 assigned
- Not Available - apple releases security patch
- 2025-02-10 - CVE CVE-2025-24200 published to NVD
- 2025-11-04 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-24200
Vulnerability Analysis
An issue in the authorization mechanism allowed physical attacks to disable USB Restricted Mode on locked devices, potentially compromising data security by allowing unauthorized device access.
Root Cause
The vulnerability stems from improper state management in the authorization module of the affected iOS and iPadOS versions.
Attack Vector
Physical access to a device allows the attacker to manipulate the state and bypass USB Restricted Mode.
// Example exploitation code (hypothetical scenario)
if (device_locked) {
disable_usb_restricted_mode();
}
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-24200
Indicators of Compromise
- Disabled USB Restricted Mode
- Unauthorized data access logs
- Anomalies in device access times
Detection Strategies
Monitoring for changes in USB mode status while the device remains locked can indicate exploitation attempts.
Monitoring Recommendations
Implement regular review of access logs and alert on attempted access to restricted modes when the device is observed as locked.
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-24200
Immediate Actions Required
- Update devices to iOS 18.3.1 or iPadOS 18.3.1
- Monitor for unauthorized physical access attempts
- Educate high-risk individuals on enhanced physical security measures
Patch Information
The update to iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1 addresses this vulnerability by improving the authorization management system.
Workarounds
Currently, no reliable workarounds exist other than implementing physical security measures and updating to the patched versions.
# Configuration example
sudo /usr/bin/update-device
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
