CVE-2025-24221 in visionOS
Summary
by MITRE • 04/01/2025
This issue was addressed with improved data access restriction. This issue is fixed in visionOS 2.4, iOS 18.4 and iPadOS 18.4, iPadOS 17.7.6. Sensitive keychain data may be accessible from an iOS backup.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical data exposure issue within Apple's mobile operating systems where sensitive keychain information could potentially be accessed through iOS backup mechanisms. The flaw emerged from inadequate data access restrictions that failed to properly isolate sensitive cryptographic material from backup processes. Security researchers identified that when users performed local backups of their devices, certain keychain entries containing authentication credentials and cryptographic keys were not adequately protected from backup extraction. This represents a significant bypass of Apple's intended security boundaries where backup operations should not compromise the confidentiality of sensitive stored data. The vulnerability affects multiple operating system versions including visionOS 2.4, iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and iPadOS 17.7.6, indicating a widespread impact across Apple's mobile platform ecosystem.
The technical implementation flaw stems from insufficient access control mechanisms within the backup and restore subsystems of Apple's operating systems. When iOS devices perform local backups, the system should enforce strict data access restrictions that prevent sensitive keychain data from being included in backup archives. However, the vulnerability allowed certain keychain entries to bypass these protective measures, creating a scenario where backup files could contain sensitive authentication material. This issue aligns with CWE-284 Access Control Vulnerability, specifically addressing inadequate access control enforcement in backup operations. The flaw demonstrates a failure in implementing proper data classification and access restriction policies that should prevent sensitive information from being exposed through backup mechanisms. Attackers could potentially extract these backup files and gain access to cryptographic keys, passwords, and other sensitive authentication data that would normally remain protected within the device's secure enclave.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure to encompass potential credential theft and authentication bypass scenarios. Mobile device backups are routinely used for device recovery and data migration purposes, making them attractive targets for attackers who could exploit this vulnerability to obtain sensitive keychain information. The implications are particularly severe given that keychain data often contains passwords for various online services, cryptographic certificates, and other authentication material that could enable attackers to maintain persistent access to user accounts and systems. This vulnerability creates a pathway for attackers to leverage backup files as a means of accessing sensitive information that should remain protected even during legitimate backup operations. The attack surface is widened because backup files are often stored in less secure locations or transmitted over networks where they could be intercepted or accessed by unauthorized parties.
Apple's resolution for this vulnerability involved implementing enhanced data access restriction mechanisms within the backup subsystem to ensure that sensitive keychain data cannot be included in backup operations without proper authorization. The fix addresses the root cause by strengthening access controls and data classification enforcement within the backup process, ensuring that only appropriately authorized data is included in backup archives. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability represents a classic example of inadequate backup security controls that could be exploited in various attack scenarios. Organizations should ensure all affected devices are updated to the patched versions, particularly in enterprise environments where mobile device backups are routinely performed. The mitigation strategy should include verification of backup configurations and implementation of additional security controls to prevent unauthorized access to backup files, aligning with the principle of least privilege and proper data handling practices. This vulnerability highlights the importance of comprehensive security testing of backup and restore mechanisms, as these operations are critical points where security boundaries can be inadvertently bypassed.