Critical Buffer Over-read Vulnerability in SQLite3 Package

sqlite3 Updated 03 Oct 2025

Summary

07/07/2017
N/A
Yes i
Critical
9.8

UBUNTU-CVE-2017-10989: The getNodeSize function in ext/rtree/rtree.c in SQLite through 3.19.3, as used in GDAL and other products, mishandles undersized RTree blobs in a crafted database, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read or possibly un... Affects sqlite3 versions < 3.8.2-1ubuntu2.2+esm1. Fixed in 3.8.2-1ubuntu2.2+esm1. How to fix ↓

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Background

SQLite is a widely used embedded database engine that provides a lightweight, serverless, self-contained SQL database. It is commonly utilized in various applications, including web browsers, mobile apps, and other software requiring a database. The SQLite3 package, specifically, is a command-line interface for interacting with SQLite databases. This package is crucial for developers and users who need to manage and query SQLite databases effectively. However, it has been identified to have a vulnerability that could lead to severe security implications.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2017-10989, originates from the getNodeSize function in the ext/rtree/rtree.c file of SQLite versions up to 3.19.3. It mishandles undersized RTree blobs in a crafted database, which can lead to a heap-based buffer over-read. This may result in unauthorized access to sensitive data or cause application crashes. The severity of this vulnerability is underscored by its CVSS score of 9.8, indicating critical risk levels that could impact confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

3.8.2-1ubuntu2.2+esm1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade sqlite3

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Workaround

If immediate patching is not feasible, consider restricting access to the affected application or database until the update can be applied. Additionally, ensure that input validation is performed on any database interactions to mitigate potential exploitation.

Conclusion

The CVE-2017-10989 vulnerability in the SQLite3 package poses a significant risk to applications utilizing this database engine. It is crucial to update to the patched versions as soon as possible to mitigate potential security threats. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor for such vulnerabilities in real-time.

See every vulnerability recorded for sqlite3 →

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FAQ

CVE-2017-10989 is a critical vulnerability in the SQLite3 package that can lead to a heap-based buffer over-read, potentially exposing sensitive data.

You can use the Vulert platform to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software without requiring installation. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application.

Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, application crashes, and other security risks.

Yes, patched versions of the SQLite3 package are available for both Ubuntu 14.04 LTS and 16.04 LTS.

If you cannot update the package immediately, consider restricting access to the affected application and performing input validation to reduce the risk of exploitation.

Related vulnerabilities

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How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

3.8.2-1ubuntu2.2+esm1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade sqlite3

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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