Apple has released an emergency update to address a critical zero-day vulnerability, CVE-2025-24200, that has been actively exploited in sophisticated attacks against iPhone and iPad users. This vulnerability allows attackers with physical access to disable USB Restricted Mode on locked devices, potentially exposing sensitive data. Users are urged to update their devices immediately to safeguard against these threats.
Key Takeaways
Apple has patched the CVE-2025-24200 vulnerability in iOS and iPadOS.
The flaw allows disabling USB Restricted Mode, which protects against unauthorized data access.
Exploitation requires physical access to the device.
The vulnerability was discovered by Bill Marczak from Citizen Lab.
Users should update to iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1 to mitigate risks.
Understanding The Vulnerability
The CVE-2025-24200 vulnerability is categorized as an authorization issue that could enable attackers to bypass USB Restricted Mode, a feature designed to prevent unauthorized access to locked devices. This mode was introduced in iOS 11.4.1 and is crucial for protecting sensitive data from forensic tools used by law enforcement.
The Nature Of The Attack
Apple has indicated that the vulnerability has been exploited in targeted attacks, particularly against specific individuals. The company noted that the attacks are sophisticated and may involve physical access to the device, which raises concerns about the potential for misuse in surveillance operations.
Devices Affected
The emergency update is applicable to a range of devices, including:
iPhone XS and later
iPad Pro 13-inch and later
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later)
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later)
iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
iPad (7th generation and later)
iPad mini (5th generation and later)
Importance Of Updating
Apple emphasizes the importance of keeping devices updated to protect against potential cyber threats. The latest updates not only address the CVE-2025-24200 vulnerability but also improve state management to enhance overall security. Users are strongly encouraged to install these updates as soon as possible to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.
The swift action taken by Apple to patch this zero-day vulnerability highlights the ongoing challenges in mobile security. As cyber threats continue to evolve, users must remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining the security of their devices. Regular updates and awareness of potential vulnerabilities are essential in safeguarding personal information from unauthorized access.
Cybersecurity is more crucial than ever. At BetterWorld Technology, we provide advanced solutions to tackle emerging threats while fostering innovation. Secure your business with confidence—contact us today for a consultation.
Sources
Apple Update Mitigates “Extremely Sophisticated” Zero-Day Exploit - Infosecurity Magazine, Infosecurity Magazine.
Apple's Urgent Update Closes Actively Exploited iOS Zero-Day CVE-2025-24200 Vulnerability! - Faharas News, Faharas News.
Apple Patches Actively Exploited iOS Zero-Day CVE-2025-24200 in Emergency Update, The Hacker News.
Apple fixes zero-day exploited in 'extremely sophisticated' attacks, BleepingComputer.
Apple iOS 0-day Vulnerability Exploited Wild in Extremely Sophisticated Attack, GBHackers News.