Malicious Code Exploit in auto-backup-linux: A Critical Security Threat
Summary
MAL-2026-923: Malicious code in auto-backup-linux (PyPI). Affects auto-backup-linux versions 1.0.1 – 1.0.7. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The auto-backup-linux package, available on PyPI, is designed to facilitate the backup of files to a remote location. However, it has been found to contain malicious code that compromises user data. The package operates without user consent regarding the remote storage destination, which is hardcoded to a Gofile account, leaving users vulnerable to data exfiltration. The malicious functionality includes targeting sensitive files such as passwords, mnemonics, keys, and crypto tokens, as well as exfiltrating command history and clipboard content.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from the package's design, which allows it to upload sensitive user data to a hardcoded remote location without user knowledge or consent. This infostealer capability is particularly dangerous as it targets files containing sensitive information and runs as a scheduled task, ensuring persistent data exfiltration. The package has been linked to multiple GitHub repositories associated with cryptocurrencies and AI tools, increasing the risk of exploitation for users in these domains.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
pip uninstall auto-backup-linuxIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can disable any scheduled tasks or services that invoke the auto-backup-linux package to prevent it from running and exfiltrating data until the vulnerability is resolved.
Conclusion
The auto-backup-linux package presents a significant security risk due to its malicious code that exfiltrates sensitive user data. Users are strongly advised to uninstall the package and monitor for any updates or patches. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in identifying vulnerabilities in your applications.
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FAQ
auto-backup-linux is a Python package designed to back up files to a remote location, but it has been found to contain malicious code.
The vulnerability allows the package to exfiltrate sensitive data, including passwords and crypto tokens, to a hardcoded remote server without user consent.
You should uninstall the auto-backup-linux package immediately and check for any signs of data compromise.
Yes, versions 1.0.1 to 1.0.7 of the auto-backup-linux package are known to be affected by this vulnerability.
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