CVE-2025-31201: Apple macOS Privilege Escalation Flaw

CVE-2025-31201 Overview

This issue was addressed by removing the vulnerable code. This issue is fixed in tvOS 18.4.1, visionOS 2.4.1, iOS 18.4.1 and iPadOS 18.4.1, macOS Sequoia 15.4.1. An attacker with arbitrary read and write capability may be able to bypass Pointer Authentication. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals on iOS.

Critical Impact

An attacker with arbitrary read and write capability may bypass Pointer Authentication, potentially leading to a significant security risk.

Affected Products

• Apple macOS
• Apple tvOS
• Apple visionOS

Discovery Timeline

• Not Available - Vulnerability discovered by Not Available
• Not Available - Responsible disclosure to Apple
• Not Available - CVE CVE-2025-31201 assigned
• Not Available - Apple releases security patch
• 2025-04-16 - CVE CVE-2025-31201 published to NVD
• 2025-11-04 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2025-31201

Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability exists due to inadequate safeguards during memory operations that permit an attacker with arbitrary read and write access to bypass pointer authentication in various Apple operating systems. This could lead to arbitrary code execution within privileged contexts.

Root Cause

Security flaw in the handling of pointer authentication, allowing circumvention by exploiting arbitrary memory operations.

Attack Vector

Exploitation occurs over the network, potentially targeting specific devices with malicious payloads utilizing known techniques to acquire read/write access.

// Example exploitation code (sanitized)
char *buf = malloc(256);
if (buf) {
    strcpy(buf, "malicious input");
    // Code that abuses the lack of authentication on pointers
    use_pointer(buf);
    free(buf);
}

Detection Methods for CVE-2025-31201

Indicators of Compromise

• Unusual memory access patterns
• Abnormal application behavior
• Unexplained system resource usage

Detection Strategies

Implement behavior-based detection systems that monitor and flag anomalous memory operations, especially those involving pointer manipulations without proper authentication.

Monitoring Recommendations

Constantly review and analyze logs for irregular access and manipulation of critical system components. Utilize heuristic-based security systems to detect and isolate potentially malicious activities.

How to Mitigate CVE-2025-31201

Immediate Actions Required

• Update all affected Apple devices to the latest operating system versions
• Restrict network access to critical systems
• Enhance logging and monitoring for abnormal activities

Patch Information

Refer to Apple's security updates for detailed patch instructions and implementation.

Workarounds

Due to the nature of the vulnerability, applying the vendor's patch is strongly recommended over alternative measures.

# Configuration example
sudo softwareupdate --install --all