CVE-2017-16060: Hijacked Environment Variables in babelcli

babelcli Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

29/08/2018
No i
High
7.5

CVE-2017-16060: babelcli is malware. Affects babelcli versions < 1.0.0. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The babelcli package is a command-line interface tool used for transpiling JavaScript code using Babel. It is commonly used in JavaScript development workflows to convert modern JavaScript syntax into backward-compatible versions. The package has been identified as containing malware that steals environment variables and sends them to attacker-controlled locations. This vulnerability poses a significant security risk as it can lead to the compromise of sensitive credentials and data.

Vulnerability Detail

The babelcli package, in all versions, has been found to be infected with malware. When installed, the package steals environment variables from the host system and sends them to the attacker's servers. This can include sensitive credentials, tokens, and other important information stored in environment variables. The malware can be used to gain unauthorized access to systems, compromise databases, and perform other malicious activities. The package has been unpublished from the npm registry to prevent further installations.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Conclusion

The babelcli package has been identified as containing malware that steals environment variables. If you find this package installed in your environment, it is crucial to take immediate action to remove it, clear your npm cache, regenerate credentials, and review any exposed services. Regularly updating and reviewing your project's dependencies can help prevent such incidents. For further support on vulnerability remediation, contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

You can check if the babelcli package is installed by running the command npm ls babelcli in your terminal. If the package is present, it means it is installed in your environment.

If you find the babelcli package installed, it is recommended to immediately delete the package, clear your npm cache, remove any references to it in package.json files, and regenerate your sensitive credentials.

Yes, the malware-infected babelcli package can be used by attackers to gain unauthorized access to your systems, especially if sensitive credentials are exposed through environment variables.

To prevent malware-infected packages, it is essential to regularly update and review the packages used in your projects. Additionally, consider using package vulnerability monitoring tools like Vulert to receive real-time alerts about vulnerabilities in your dependencies.

If your credentials or data have been compromised due to this vulnerability, it is crucial to take immediate action. Change all affected credentials, revoke any compromised tokens, and thoroughly review and secure any services that may have been exposed.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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