Malicious Code Injection in bootes-sadr-epimetheus-module: A Threat to npm Ecosystem
Summary
MAL-2025-140090: Malicious code in bootes-sadr-epimetheus-module (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The bootes-sadr-epimetheus-module is an npm package that is part of the tea.xyz token reward campaign. This package is designed to facilitate token rewards for developers by generating and publishing derivative packages. However, it has been identified as containing malicious code that compromises the integrity of the npm registry.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from the package being part of a larger scheme to inflate developer reputation scores through automated scripts. These scripts modify the package.json file to remove private flags, alter version numbers, and create random package names, leading to pollution of the npm registry. This not only affects the integrity of the affected package but also poses a risk to users who may unknowingly install compromised versions.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall bootes-sadr-epimetheus-moduleIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, consider removing the bootes-sadr-epimetheus-module from your project if it is not essential. You can do this by executing: npm uninstall bootes-sadr-epimetheus-module. Additionally, monitor your package-lock.json file for any unauthorized changes.
Conclusion
The bootes-sadr-epimetheus-module poses a significant threat due to its malicious code designed to manipulate the npm registry. It is essential to take immediate action by updating or removing the package and utilizing tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in your projects.
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FAQ
It is an npm package associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, designed to generate and publish derivative packages.
The malicious code modifies your package.json file, potentially leading to the installation of compromised packages and pollution of the npm registry.
You should immediately update or uninstall the package to prevent any potential security risks.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities using just your package-lock.json file. You can check if your application is affected by visiting the Vulert playground.
Regularly audit your dependencies, use tools like Vulert for monitoring, and stay informed about the packages you include in your projects.
