CVE-2025-7709 in SQLite
Summary
by MITRE • 09/08/2025
An integer overflow exists in the FTS5 https://sqlite.org/fts5.html extension. It occurs when the size of an array of tombstone pointers is calculated and truncated into a 32-bit integer. A pointer to partially controlled data can then be written out of bounds.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-7709 represents a critical integer overflow condition within the FTS5 full-text search extension of the SQLite database system. This flaw exists in the memory management logic where the calculation of array size for tombstone pointers is performed, leading to a truncation issue that can result in arbitrary code execution. The FTS5 extension is widely used for text search capabilities in database applications, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for systems relying on SQLite for content indexing and retrieval operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of integer arithmetic during the allocation of memory structures within the FTS5 extension. When calculating the required size for an array of tombstone pointers, the computation produces a value that exceeds the range of a 32-bit signed integer, causing an overflow condition. This overflow results in a truncated array size that is insufficient for the actual data requirements, creating a scenario where memory allocation occurs with inadequate bounds checking. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the system attempts to write pointer values to memory locations that were not properly allocated, leading to out-of-bounds memory access patterns.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-7709 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it creates opportunities for remote code execution and system compromise. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious input data that triggers the overflow condition during FTS5 processing, potentially allowing them to manipulate memory contents and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. This risk is particularly elevated in environments where SQLite databases are used for web applications, mobile applications, or any system processing untrusted input through FTS5 search functionality. The vulnerability affects systems using SQLite versions that include the FTS5 extension, which is prevalent across numerous applications and platforms that utilize SQLite for database operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-7709 should prioritize immediate patching of affected SQLite versions to address the integer overflow condition in FTS5 extension memory management. Organizations should implement input validation controls that limit the size and complexity of data processed through FTS5 search operations, particularly when handling untrusted input from external sources. Network segmentation and application firewalls can help reduce the attack surface by limiting access to systems that utilize FTS5 functionality. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect anomalous database access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and regular security assessments should verify that all SQLite installations have been updated to versions containing the relevant fixes. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which describes integer overflow conditions, and may map to ATT&CK techniques involving memory corruption and privilege escalation through database system exploitation.