A critical vulnerability has been discovered in SQLite SQLite3 versions up to 3.43., affecting the make alltest Handler component. In particular, this issue impacts the sessionReadRecord function in the ext/session/sqlite3session.c file. The manipulation involved leads to a heap-based buffer overflow, which could have severe consequences for affected systems. The vulnerability has been assigned the identifier CVE-2023-7104 and is further discussed by VDB-248999.

In this post, we will provide a brief explanation of this vulnerability, demonstrate the affected code snippet, and provide links to the original references. Additionally, we will describe the exploitation details, and most importantly, recommend applying a patch to fix this issue.

Vulnerability Description

The SQLite SQLite3 vulnerability resides in the make alltest Handler component and is related to a heap-based buffer overflow. This type of overflow occurs when a program incorrectly writes data past the boundaries of a buffer that has been allocated on the heap. Consequently, this can lead to the corruption or overwriting of adjacent memory blocks, potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution or a denial of service attack.

Specifically, this vulnerability affects the sessionReadRecord function of the ext/session/sqlite3session.c file. If exploited, an attacker can manipulate the system and cause severe damage to the software or hardware in question.

The affected code snippet in the ext/session/sqlite3session.c file is as follows

static int sessionReadRecord(
  sqlite3_stmt *pStmt,          /* Statement to read record from */
  const char **paData,          /* OUT: Pointer to record data */
  int *pnData                   /* OUT: Pointer to record data length */
){
  int rc;
  const char *aData;
  int nData;

  rc = sqlite3_step(pStmt);
  if( rc!=SQLITE_ROW ){
    return rc==SQLITE_DONE ? SQLITE_OK : rc;
  }
  aData = sqlite3_column_blob(pStmt, );
  nData = sqlite3_column_bytes(pStmt, );

  /* THIS IS THE VULNERABLE PART OF THE CODE */
  ...
}

Exploit Details

To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker needs to manipulate the system so that it triggers the heap-based buffer overflow issue in the sessionReadRecord function. Although precise exploitation details ought to remain undisclosed to deter malicious steps, it is of prime importance to recognize the critical nature of this vulnerability, and take remediation steps as soon as possible.

Patch and Recommendations

To fix this issue, it is highly recommended that you apply the necessary patch as soon as it becomes available. Patches are typically provided by the developers of the affected software or reputable security researchers who analyzed the vulnerability.

Keep an eye on the official SQLite website (https://www.sqlite.org/index.html) and the SQLite GitHub repository (https://github.com/sqlite/sqlite) for any updates or announcements concerning this vulnerability.

In the interim, ensure that your software is updated to the latest version of SQLite SQLite3 and restrict access to the vulnerable component or disable it altogether if not in use.

Additional Resources

- Original Reference: VDB-248999
- SQLite Official Website: https://www.sqlite.org/index.html
- SQLite GitHub Repository: https://github.com/sqlite/sqlite

Conclusion

CVE-2023-7104 is a critical vulnerability affecting SQLite SQLite3 versions up to 3.43.. This vulnerability is a heap-based buffer overflow issue impacting the make alltest Handler component (sessionReadRecord function in ext/session/sqlite3session.c file). To safeguard your systems, apply the necessary patch as soon as possible, update your software to the latest versions, and restrict or disable access to the vulnerable component accordingly. Always stay vigilant and informed about potential vulnerabilities affecting your software, and act promptly to remediate any threats.

Timeline

Published on: 12/29/2023 10:15:13 UTC
Last modified on: 01/12/2024 14:15:49 UTC