SQLite Hardening Guide

Introduction

SQLite is a lightweight, self-contained database engine. Hardening SQLite involves applying security measures to protect database integrity and prevent unauthorized access.

1. Use the Latest Version

- Regularly update SQLite to ensure you have the latest security patches. - Check the official SQLite website for updates.

2. Limit Database Access

- Restrict file permissions to allow only authorized users access. - Example:

  1. `chmod 600 database.db`
  2. `chown user:group database.db`
3. Use Strong Authentication and Encryption

- Use an encrypted database with SQLCipher. - Protect sensitive data by encrypting specific columns manually if full-database encryption isn’t an option.

4. Secure Application-Level Access

- Validate and sanitize all user inputs to prevent SQL injection. - Use parameterized queries instead of concatenated SQL strings.

5. Enable Write-Ahead Logging (WAL) Securely

- Use WAL mode for better performance, but ensure WAL files are protected. - Example:

  1. `PRAGMA journal_mode=WAL;`
6. Regular Backups and Integrity Checks

- Perform regular backups to prevent data loss. - Use `PRAGMA integrity_check;` to verify database consistency.

7. Restrict Network Exposure

- Avoid exposing SQLite databases over networks. - Use local storage or secure API access mechanisms.

8. Secure Temporary Files

- SQLite may create temporary files during queries; ensure `/tmp` and other temp directories are secured. - Example:

  1. `mount -o noexec,nosuid,nodev /tmp`
9. Use Database Access Controls

- Implement application-level controls for role-based access. - Ensure proper session handling in web applications using SQLite.

10. Monitor and Audit Database Activity

- Log access and changes to the database. - Use tools like `sqlite3_analyzer` to review database usage and structure.

Conclusion

Applying these hardening techniques will enhance SQLite security, protect data integrity, and prevent unauthorized access. Regular maintenance and monitoring are key to ongoing database security.