Malicious Code Injection in bumpy_kiwi_z3n: A Threat to npm Ecosystem
Summary
MAL-2025-93449: Malicious code in bumpy_kiwi_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
bumpy_kiwi_z3n is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign targeting the npm registry. This package is designed to manipulate the npm ecosystem by generating and publishing derivative packages with randomized names, aimed at inflating developer reputation scores for token rewards. The package's functionality is compromised due to its inherent malicious intent, making it a significant threat to developers and users relying on npm packages.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in bumpy_kiwi_z3n stems from its association with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which utilizes autopublish scripts to create and publish numerous derivative packages. These scripts modify the package.json file to remove private flags, alter version numbers, and generate random package names, leading to pollution of the npm registry. The ramifications include potential security risks for users who inadvertently install these malicious packages, as they may contain harmful code or lead to further exploitation.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall bumpy_kiwi_z3nIf 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 bumpy_kiwi_z3n package and instead look for alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks. Always verify the integrity and reputation of packages before installation.
Conclusion
The bumpy_kiwi_z3n package poses a significant threat due to its malicious code designed to manipulate the npm ecosystem. It is crucial for developers to be vigilant, remove such packages, and utilize tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in their projects.
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FAQ
bumpy_kiwi_z3n is an npm package identified as part of a malicious campaign that manipulates the npm registry.
The vulnerability can lead to the installation of malicious code, compromising the security of your project and potentially leading to further exploitation.
You should uninstall the package immediately using the command: npm uninstall bumpy_kiwi_z3n.
You can use tools like Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time using just your package-lock.json file.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without requiring any signup.
