Malicious Code Vulnerability in @vitemirrorte/element-plus-vite-cli: Remote Control Exploit
Summary
MAL-2026-16433: Malicious code in @vitemirrorte/element-plus-vite-cli (npm). Affects @vitemirrorte/element-plus-vite-cli versions 2.9.1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The package @vitemirrorte/element-plus-vite-cli is a tool designed for integrating Element Plus with Vite, a modern frontend build tool. It simplifies the development process by providing a streamlined setup for using Element Plus components in Vite applications. However, this package has been found to contain malicious code that compromises the security of the host system.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from a malicious payload embedded in the package that executes upon installation. Specifically, during the npm install process, a post-install script activates a hidden agent that connects to a command-and-control (C2) server. This agent can execute arbitrary shell commands, read and write files, and communicate sensitive information back to the attacker. The C2 server is disguised as a legitimate domain, making detection difficult. The malicious code is designed to remain dormant unless specific conditions are met, allowing it to evade security scanners.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall @vitemirrorte/element-plus-vite-cliIf 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 affected package until a patch is confirmed. Additionally, consider using a different package that provides similar functionality without known vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The discovery of malicious code in the @vitemirrorte/element-plus-vite-cli package highlights the importance of vigilance in managing open-source dependencies. Users are urged to update their packages and utilize tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities proactively.
See every vulnerability recorded for @vitemirrorte/element-plus-vite-cli →
FAQ
The malicious code allows remote execution of commands and unauthorized access to the filesystem on the installer's host.
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.
Immediately uninstall the package and update to a safe version. Run 'npm uninstall @vitemirrorte/element-plus-vite-cli' followed by the update command.
The code remains dormant until specific project conditions are met, making it difficult for scanners to detect it during routine checks.
Regularly audit your dependencies, use tools like Vulert for monitoring, and stay informed about security advisories related to the packages you use.
References
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