CVE-2026-51297
SQLite · SQLite
SQLite 3.41 contains a use-after-free vulnerability in the JSON parsing logic that can be triggered by malicious payloads to cause crashes or code execution.
Executive summary
A critical use-after-free vulnerability in SQLite 3.41 allows remote attackers to compromise system integrity through specially crafted JSON payloads.
Vulnerability
The software exhibits a use-after-free defect within its JSON parsing logic. This allows an unauthenticated attacker to supply malformed JSON that triggers an illegal memory access after a free operation.
Business impact
The CVSS score of 8.8 reflects the high risk of this vulnerability. Successful exploitation can result in arbitrary code execution, information disclosure, or a denial of service, impacting the reliability and security of any database-driven application relying on this version of SQLite.
Remediation
Immediate Action: Review the vendor advisory at https://github.com/programmervuln/cveadvisory-/blob/main/CVE-2026-51297 to identify available updates or recommended database configuration changes.
Proactive Monitoring: Review database error logs for unusual query patterns or frequent service restarts that may indicate attempted exploitation.
Compensating Controls: Deploy Web Application Firewalls or database proxy filters capable of inspecting and sanitizing JSON inputs before they reach the SQLite processing engine.
Exploitation status
Public Exploit Available: No
Analyst recommendation
Due to the fundamental nature of SQLite in modern software stacks, the potential for widespread impact is high. Security teams should prioritize patching or upgrading to a version of SQLite not affected by this memory management defect.