Use-After-Free Vulnerability in SQLite by SQLite Consortium

CVE-2026-51302

What is CVE-2026-51302?

CVE-2026-51302 is a use-after-free vulnerability found in SQLite 3.41, an open-source relational database management system widely used for its simplicity and reliability. The issue occurs within the expression evaluation logic of SQLite, specifically in the sqlite3ReleaseTempReg function, which incorrectly manages temporary register resources. When memory is released prematurely, the subsequent exprComputeOperands function may access this freed memory, leading to unpredictable behavior. This vulnerability opens the door for attackers to execute malicious SQL statements that could lead to severe repercussions, including denial of service, leaking of sensitive information, or execution of arbitrary code on the affected systems. Organizations utilizing SQLite in their applications or services could face significant operational disruptions or data integrity issues due to this vulnerability.

Potential impact of CVE-2026-51302

1. Denial of Service (DoS): Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to cause service interruptions by manipulating SQL queries, thereby increasing downtime and hindering legitimate user access to database services.

2. Data Exposure: The flaw allows for potential leaks of sensitive information through the improper handling of memory, which could result in the unauthorized access of confidential data stored within the database.

3. Arbitrary Code Execution: By carefully crafting SQL statements, attackers may achieve arbitrary code execution, leading to further exploitation of the underlying system, including installation of malware or additional vulnerabilities being compromised.

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