Malicious Code Injection in capable_limpet_z3n: A Threat to npm Packages
Summary
MAL-2025-93466: Malicious code in capable_limpet_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
capable_limpet_z3n is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign targeting the npm ecosystem. This package is associated with the tea.xyz token reward initiative, which aims to inflate developer reputation scores through the automatic generation and publication of derivative packages. The malicious nature of this package lies in its ability to manipulate other packages within the npm registry, potentially leading to widespread issues for developers relying on these packages.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in capable_limpet_z3n originates from its design to include autopublish scripts that automatically generate and publish derivative packages with randomized names. This behavior is intended to remove private flags from package.json, alter version numbers, and continuously republish variants, thereby polluting the npm registry. The ramifications of this vulnerability include the potential for developers to unknowingly use compromised packages, leading to security risks and integrity issues within their applications.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall capable_limpet_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 capable_limpet_z3n package altogether until a secure version is released. Additionally, consider using alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks.
Conclusion
The capable_limpet_z3n package poses a significant threat due to its malicious code that manipulates npm packages. Developers should take immediate action to remove this package and monitor their applications for vulnerabilities. Utilizing tools like Vulert can aid in maintaining the security of your software.
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FAQ
capable_limpet_z3n is an npm package involved in a malicious campaign that aims to inflate developer reputation scores by publishing derivative packages.
This vulnerability can lead to the inclusion of compromised packages in your application, which may introduce security risks and affect the integrity of your software.
If you have used capable_limpet_z3n, it is crucial to remove it from your project and update to a secure version or use alternative packages.
You can use tools like Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just the package-lock.json file.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
