Critical Malicious Code Vulnerability in @actbase/react-native-devtools
Summary
MAL-2025-190793: Malicious code in @actbase/react-native-devtools (npm). Affects @actbase/react-native-devtools versions 0.1.3. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The @actbase/react-native-devtools package is a tool designed for developers using React Native, providing debugging and development utilities. However, it has been identified as containing malicious code that compromises the security of any system where it is installed. This vulnerability poses a significant risk to developers and organizations relying on this package for their projects.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability stems from the presence of embedded malicious code within the @actbase/react-native-devtools package. This code can fully compromise any computer that has the package installed, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information such as secrets and keys. The origin of this vulnerability is linked to a malicious actor who has inserted harmful code into the package, making it a severe threat to users.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall @actbase/react-native-devtools
If it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
Currently, there are no effective workarounds to mitigate the risks posed by this vulnerability. The only recommended action is to uninstall the package and secure your system.
Conclusion
The @actbase/react-native-devtools package contains critical malicious code that poses a severe security risk. Users must take immediate action to remove the package and secure their systems. Regular monitoring for vulnerabilities, such as through Vulert, can help prevent future incidents.
See every vulnerability recorded for @actbase/react-native-devtools →
FAQ
You should immediately uninstall the package and rotate any sensitive information stored on your system.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without any signup.
After removing the package, ensure to rotate all secrets and keys. However, there is no guarantee that all malicious software has been removed.
Leaving the package installed can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data and full control of your computer by malicious actors.
If a patched version is released, updating the package may resolve the issue. However, it is recommended to uninstall the package immediately.