CVE-2017-16064: Hijacked Environment Variables in node-openssl

node-openssl Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

10/10/2018
No i
High
7.5

CVE-2017-16064: node-openssl is malware. Affects node-openssl versions < 1.0.2. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The node-openssl package is an npm package that provides functionality for working with OpenSSL in Node.js applications. It allows developers to perform cryptographic operations using OpenSSL libraries. However, all versions of the package have been found to contain malware that steals environment variables and sends them to attacker-controlled locations.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in the node-openssl package allows an attacker to hijack environment variables and exfiltrate them to their own servers. This can lead to the compromise of sensitive information such as credentials, tokens, and other sensitive data stored in environment variables. The package has been unpublished from the npm registry to prevent further installations.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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Workaround

There is no specific workaround for this vulnerability. It is recommended to follow the steps mentioned in the 'how_to_fix' section to mitigate the risk.

Conclusion

The node-openssl package has been found to contain malware that steals environment variables. If you have this package installed in your environment, it is crucial to take immediate action to remove it and mitigate the risk of further compromise. For further support on vulnerability remediation, contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

You can check if the node-openssl package is installed by running the command 'npm ls node-openssl' in your project directory. If it is listed in the output, it is installed.

If you find the node-openssl package installed, you should immediately delete it, clear your npm cache, and regenerate any sensitive credentials that may have been exposed.

The origin of the node-openssl package in your environment should be investigated. It is possible that it was installed as a dependency of another package or as part of a compromised build process.

No, this vulnerability requires the node-openssl package to be installed in the environment and the attacker to have control over the exfiltration server.

Indicators of compromise may include unusual network traffic, unauthorized access to sensitive resources, or the presence of unfamiliar files or processes on the system. It is recommended to review your environment for any such indicators.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →

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