== 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:
  - `chmod 600 database.db`
  - `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:
  - `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:
  - `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.