CVE-2026-51298 in SQLite
Summary
by MITRE • 07/27/2026
sqlite 3.41 is vulnerable to use after free in the JSON extraction function. After releasing JsonParse object memory via jsonParseFree(), the program still accesses internal member of the freed pointer, which can cause service crash and denial of service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/27/2026
The vulnerability in SQLite version 3.41 represents a critical use-after-free condition within the JSON extraction functionality that poses significant operational risks to affected systems. This flaw occurs when the JsonParse object memory is released through the jsonParseFree() function but subsequent code continues to reference internal members of the freed pointer structure. The technical implementation involves improper memory management where the program maintains references to deallocated memory regions, creating a scenario where accessing these locations can result in undefined behavior and system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption to encompass potential security implications that align with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions in software implementations. When an attacker can manipulate JSON parsing operations to trigger this memory access pattern, they may achieve denial of service through controlled crashes or potentially exploit the instability for more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability manifests during JSON extraction processes where the parser handles malformed or specially crafted JSON data that causes the memory management sequence to execute improperly.
This particular flaw demonstrates weaknesses in the memory lifecycle management within SQLite's JSON processing subsystem and represents a deviation from secure coding practices outlined in industry standards such as the CERT Secure Coding Standards for C. The vulnerability's exploitation potential increases when applications rely heavily on JSON functionality, particularly in web applications, database systems, or any environment where untrusted JSON data is processed through SQLite's parsing mechanisms. The timing of the memory access violation creates opportunities for attackers to either cause immediate service disruption or potentially leverage the instability to execute arbitrary code.
Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected SQLite installations to address this vulnerability and implement monitoring for unusual service behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts. System administrators should also consider implementing input validation measures for JSON data to reduce the likelihood of triggering memory management issues during parsing operations. The remediation approach must include thorough testing of patched systems to ensure that the memory management fix resolves the use-after-free condition without introducing regressions in JSON processing functionality, while maintaining compliance with security standards such as those recommended by NIST and other cybersecurity frameworks for database system hardening.