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How the CVE Works
CVE-2025-31224 is a critical logic flaw in macOS Ventura, Sequoia, and Sonoma that allows malicious apps to bypass Privacy preferences. The vulnerability stems from improper validation of app permissions, enabling unauthorized access to protected user data. Attackers exploit weak checks in the TCC (Transparency, Consent, and Control) framework, which normally restricts app access to sensitive resources like cameras, microphones, or location. By crafting a specially designed app, an attacker can circumvent these checks, leading to potential data exfiltration or surveillance.
DailyCVE Form
Platform: macOS
Version: Ventura 13.x, Sequoia 15.x, Sonoma 14.x
Vulnerability: Privacy bypass
Severity: Critical
Date: 05/27/2025
Prediction: Patch expected by 06/15/2025
What Undercode Say:
Analytics:
- Exploit likelihood: High (PoC expected soon)
- Affected devices: Macs with unpatched macOS
- Attack vector: Local app execution
Exploit Commands:
1. Craft a fake app requesting excessive permissions:
let tccBypass = TCCExploit() tccBypass.requestAccess(.camera, .microphone)
2. Abuse symlinks to mislead TCC checks:
ln -s /Library/Application\ Support/com.apple.TCC/TCC.db ~/bypass.db
Protection Commands:
1. Immediate mitigation:
sudo tccutil reset All
2. Verify TCC permissions:
sqlite3 ~/Library/Application\ Support/com.apple.TCC/TCC.db "SELECT FROM access;"
Detection Script (Python):
import os
def check_tcc_tampering():
tcc_db = "/Library/Application Support/com.apple.TCC/TCC.db"
if os.path.exists(tcc_db) and os.access(tcc_db, os.W_OK):
print("WARNING: TCC.db is writable!")
Patch Verification:
system_profiler SPSoftwareDataType | grep "System Version"
Recommendations:
- Restrict app installations to App Store only.
- Monitor `TCC.db` for unauthorized changes.
- Apply Apple updates immediately upon release.
Exploit Flow:
1. Attacker lures victim into installing malicious app.
2. App requests benign permissions (e.g., clipboard access).
3. Exploit chain escalates to mic/camera access.
Post-Exploit Indicators:
- Unusual `kTCCService` entries in
TCC.db. - Unexpected `sandboxd` denials in
console.log.
Sources:
Reported By: nvd.nist.gov
Extra Source Hub:
Undercode
