CVE-2023-7104 in SQLite3
Summary
by MITRE • 12/29/2023
A vulnerability was found in SQLite SQLite3 up to 3.43.0 and classified as critical. This issue affects the function sessionReadRecord of the file ext/session/sqlite3session.c of the component make alltest Handler. The manipulation leads to heap-based buffer overflow. It is recommended to apply a patch to fix this issue. The associated identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-248999.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-7104 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow in SQLite3 versions up to 3.43.0, specifically within the sessionReadRecord function located in the ext/session/sqlite3session.c file. This flaw exists within the make alltest Handler component of the SQLite database system, which is widely deployed across various applications and platforms that rely on SQLite for data storage and management. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices during the processing of session records, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or cause system instability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the sessionReadRecord function processes data structures without proper bounds checking on heap-allocated memory regions. This function is responsible for reading and interpreting session records that track changes made to database tables, particularly in scenarios involving database replication or synchronization features. When malformed or oversized input data is processed through this function, the lack of proper buffer size validation allows attackers to write beyond the allocated memory boundaries, resulting in a heap-based buffer overflow condition. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, though in this case the overflow occurs in heap memory rather than stack memory, making it particularly dangerous for memory corruption attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-7104 is severe given SQLite's widespread adoption across numerous applications and systems. Any application that utilizes SQLite3 for database operations and employs session tracking features becomes potentially vulnerable to remote code execution or denial of service attacks. The vulnerability can be exploited through specially crafted database operations or session data that triggers the problematic code path, making it particularly concerning for web applications, mobile applications, and embedded systems that rely on SQLite for data persistence. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or service disruption. The vulnerability's classification as critical by security vendors indicates the high potential for widespread exploitation and significant damage to affected environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-7104 primarily involve immediate patching of affected SQLite installations to version 3.43.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the heap-based buffer overflow condition. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems running vulnerable SQLite versions, particularly in environments where database operations are exposed to untrusted input. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous database operations or unexpected memory usage patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, input validation should be strengthened at application layers that interface with SQLite databases, particularly for any session tracking or replication functionality. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, as exploitation would likely involve crafting malicious database inputs to trigger the buffer overflow condition and subsequently execute arbitrary commands. System administrators should also consider implementing automated patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates and maintain comprehensive inventory of all SQLite installations across their infrastructure to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining undetected.