Malicious Code Injection in able_quail_z3n: A Threat to npm Ecosystem
Summary
MAL-2025-99033: Malicious code in able_quail_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The package 'able_quail_z3n' is part of the npm ecosystem, which is widely used for JavaScript package management. This package is associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which has been known to flood the npm registry with malicious packages. These packages often contain scripts that manipulate package metadata and publish numerous variants to inflate developer reputation scores.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in 'able_quail_z3n' originates from its design to include autopublish scripts that modify the package.json file. These scripts remove private flags, alter version numbers, and generate random package names, leading to pollution of the npm registry. This can result in developers unknowingly using compromised packages, which may lead to security breaches or data loss.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall able_quail_z3nIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a workaround, you can monitor your project's dependencies using tools like Vulert. By utilizing Vulert, you can check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to access the code or installation. Simply use the package-lock.json file to monitor and receive real-time alerts for open-source vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The 'able_quail_z3n' package poses a significant risk to the npm ecosystem due to its malicious code designed to manipulate package metadata. It is crucial for developers to be vigilant, uninstall affected packages, and utilize monitoring tools like Vulert to safeguard their projects from similar vulnerabilities.
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FAQ
'able_quail_z3n' is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign to inflate developer reputation scores through the creation of numerous derivative packages.
This vulnerability can lead to the inclusion of malicious code in your project, which may compromise security and lead to data loss or unauthorized access.
You should uninstall the package immediately using 'npm uninstall able_quail_z3n' and review your project's dependencies for any other potentially malicious packages.
Yes, regularly monitor your dependencies using tools like Vulert, which can alert you to vulnerabilities in real-time by analyzing your package-lock.json.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
Habilume
Habit tracker with a companion that grows with you
Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
