Malicious Code Injection in clumsy_alligator_z3n: A Threat to npm Packages
Summary
MAL-2025-93597: Malicious code in clumsy_alligator_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
clumsy_alligator_z3n is an npm package that appears to be part of a token reward campaign associated with the tea.xyz protocol. This package, like many others in the campaign, is designed to inflate developer reputation scores by automatically generating and publishing derivative packages. It is vulnerable to malicious code injection that alters its package.json file, potentially leading to widespread issues in the npm ecosystem.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in clumsy_alligator_z3n originates from its association with a malicious campaign that floods the npm registry with derivative packages. The malicious payload modifies the package.json file by removing private flags, changing version numbers, and generating random package names. This not only compromises the integrity of the package but also pollutes the npm registry, making it difficult for developers to find legitimate packages. The ramifications include loss of trust in the npm ecosystem and potential security risks for applications relying on these packages.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall clumsy_alligator_z3nIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
If an immediate update is not possible, consider removing the clumsy_alligator_z3n package from your project and replacing it with a trusted alternative. Additionally, you can monitor your package-lock.json file for any unauthorized changes using tools like Vulert, which alerts you to open-source vulnerabilities in real-time.
Conclusion
The clumsy_alligator_z3n package is compromised by malicious code that alters its package.json file, posing significant risks to developers and the npm ecosystem. It is crucial to take immediate action by updating or removing the package to safeguard your applications.
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FAQ
clumsy_alligator_z3n is an npm package involved in a token reward campaign that generates and publishes derivative packages to inflate developer reputation scores.
The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized modifications in your package.json file, potentially compromising your application's integrity and security.
You should update the package to the latest version or remove it from your project and replace it with a trusted alternative.
You can use Vulert, which monitors your package-lock.json file for vulnerabilities and alerts you in real-time without requiring code access or installation.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
