Malicious Code Injection in @lendkzn/xntaabail Package
Summary
MAL-2026-17364: Malicious code in @lendkzn/xntaabail (npm). Affects @lendkzn/xntaabail versions 7.0.0. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The @lendkzn/xntaabail package is part of a larger family of forks derived from the Baileys WhatsApp Web library. It is designed to facilitate interactions with the WhatsApp platform. However, this package has been identified as containing malicious code that exploits the user's authenticated WhatsApp session to subscribe them to unwanted channels without their consent.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability stems from the package's ability to inject a covert channel-subscription action into the WhatsApp socket layer. Upon connection, the malicious code executes an authenticated 'w:mex' FOLLOW query against attacker-controlled WhatsApp Channel/Newsletter JIDs. This action occurs silently, using the installer's own WhatsApp session, thereby subscribing the victim's account to channels they did not intend to join. The obfuscation techniques used to hide the target JIDs include plain string literals, base64 encoding, and dynamic fetching of target lists from remote sources, making detection difficult. While the malicious action does not exfiltrate credentials or execute arbitrary code, it does compromise user consent and privacy.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall @lendkzn/xntaabailIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, you can remove the @lendkzn/xntaabail package from your project to prevent any malicious actions. This can be done using the command: npm uninstall @lendkzn/xntaabail. Additionally, consider using alternative libraries that do not have known vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The @lendkzn/xntaabail package contains a significant vulnerability that allows malicious actors to exploit users' authenticated WhatsApp sessions. It is crucial to take immediate action by updating or removing the package to safeguard user privacy and consent.
See every vulnerability recorded for @lendkzn/xntaabail →
FAQ
The vulnerability involves malicious code that subscribes users to unwanted WhatsApp channels using their authenticated session.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without needing to sign up.
The primary risk is the unauthorized subscription of users to channels, which compromises user consent and privacy.
Regularly update your packages and utilize tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in your dependencies.
If affected, uninstall the package immediately and monitor your WhatsApp account for any unauthorized activity.
