CVE-2026-54619 in sqlite3-ruby
Summary
by MITRE • 07/28/2026
sqlite3 provides Ruby bindings for the SQLite3 embedded database. In version 2.9.4 and earlier, redefining a SQLite function with a different arity frees the previously registered function handler while SQLite may still reference it, resulting in a use-after-free. This issue is fixed in version 2.9.5.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2026
The vulnerability in sqlite3 ruby bindings represents a critical use-after-free condition that emerges from improper memory management during function redefinition operations. This flaw exists in versions 2.9.4 and earlier where the library fails to properly handle the lifecycle of registered function handlers when a SQLite function is redefined with a different number of arguments. The technical implementation involves the ruby binding's inability to prevent access to memory locations that were freed when a function handler was replaced, creating a scenario where the underlying SQLite engine might attempt to invoke a deallocated function pointer.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it creates potential attack vectors for remote code execution or denial of service conditions. When an attacker can manipulate the redefinition of SQLite functions through ruby bindings, they may trigger the use-after-free condition during database operations that rely on these functions. This scenario aligns with CWE-416 which specifically addresses use-after-free vulnerabilities, where memory is accessed after it has been freed by the application. The vulnerability becomes particularly dangerous in environments where untrusted input is processed through SQLite function calls, as the attacker could potentially craft malicious function definitions that trigger the memory corruption when redefined.
The root cause stems from inadequate reference counting and memory lifecycle management within the ruby binding layer. When a SQLite function is redefined with different arity, the previous handler's memory is freed but not properly invalidated, leaving potential references in the SQLite engine's internal structures. This behavior violates fundamental security principles outlined in the software security best practices that emphasize proper resource management and defensive programming techniques. The fix implemented in version 2.9.5 addresses this by ensuring proper cleanup of function handlers before allowing redefinition operations to proceed.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and code execution tactics, as use-after-free conditions often serve as stepping stones for more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability affects applications that dynamically register or redefine SQLite functions through ruby interfaces, particularly those handling untrusted data inputs. Organizations implementing database solutions using sqlite3 ruby bindings should prioritize immediate patching to version 2.9.5 or later, while also reviewing their application code for potential exposure points where function redefinition might occur. The remediation process involves not only updating the gem but also conducting security reviews of existing applications that may be vulnerable to this memory corruption issue through improper function handler management during runtime operations.
This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management in interpreted language bindings to database engines, where the abstraction layer between high-level ruby code and low-level C libraries can introduce subtle but critical security flaws. The issue highlights how seemingly simple operations like function redefinition can expose complex memory management problems that require careful attention to prevent exploitation by malicious actors.