Use-After-Free in SQLite JSON Module

Executive Summary

CVE-2026-51296 is a use-after-free vulnerability in SQLite 3.41's JSON module. It occurs in the jsonRemoveFunc function where a parsed JSON object is freed but a pointer to it is still used later. Attackers can exploit this by sending malformed JSON inputs to crash the service or leak heap memory.

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Detection Guidance

To detect this vulnerability, monitor for crashes in SQLite processes when processing JSON inputs. Use AddressSanitizer during compilation to identify use-after-free issues. Test with crafted SQL queries like SELECT json_remove('{"a":1,', '$.b.c.d'); to trigger the flaw.

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Impact Analysis

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to crash the service and leak sensitive heap memory information. If exploited, it could lead to denial of service or potential arbitrary code execution via heap spraying techniques. Attackers need the ability to execute SQL queries to trigger the flaw.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to denial of service, memory disclosure, or potential arbitrary code execution, which may compromise data integrity and availability. For GDPR, this could result in unauthorized access to personal data, violating confidentiality requirements. For HIPAA, it might expose protected health information through memory leaks or crashes, violating security and privacy rules.

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Mitigation Strategies

Immediately restrict access to SQLite JSON functions like json_remove. Update to a patched SQLite version once available. Monitor for suspicious SQL queries targeting JSON processing. Consider disabling JSON functionality if not required.

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