Malicious Code Injection in @tvg-mar/utils: DNS Exfiltration Vulnerability
Summary
MAL-2026-16416: Malicious code in @tvg-mar/utils (npm). Affects @tvg-mar/utils versions 9.9.10. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The @tvg-mar/utils package is an npm library designed to provide various utility functions for JavaScript applications. It is commonly used in web development to streamline tasks and enhance functionality. However, this package has been found to contain malicious code that exploits its installation process to exfiltrate sensitive information from the user's environment.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from the package's installation script, which executes 'node index.js'. This script loads additional modules that reconstruct Node.js core APIs and exfiltrate sensitive information such as the username, hostname, and current working directory. This data is sent to a remote server via DNS queries, creating an out-of-band exfiltration channel that activates automatically during npm install. The malicious code is obfuscated and disguised as a benign connectivity probe, making it difficult to detect.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall @tvg-mar/utilsIf 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 avoid using the @tvg-mar/utils package until a patched version is confirmed. Additionally, consider using alternative utility libraries that do not have known vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The @tvg-mar/utils package contains a serious vulnerability that allows for the exfiltration of sensitive information during installation. It is crucial for developers to update to the latest patched version and consider alternative libraries to ensure the security of their applications. Utilizing tools like Vulert can further enhance vulnerability management.
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FAQ
The vulnerability involves malicious code that exfiltrates sensitive information from the user's environment during the installation of the package.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
If you have installed the affected package, you should update it to the latest patched version immediately to mitigate the risk.
Yes, there are several alternative utility libraries available on npm that do not have known vulnerabilities. Research and choose one that fits your needs.
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References
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