Malicious Code Injection in fine_kiwi_z3n: A Threat to npm Ecosystem
Summary
MAL-2025-102727: Malicious code in fine_kiwi_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
fine_kiwi_z3n is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign targeting the npm registry. 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 package metadata and publish numerous variants, thereby polluting the npm ecosystem.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in fine_kiwi_z3n stems from its inclusion in a campaign that deploys autopublish scripts designed to modify package.json files. These scripts remove private flags, alter version numbers, and generate random package names, leading to a significant risk of reputation damage for developers and potential security threats for users. The malicious payload continuously republishes variants, complicating the identification and removal of the threat.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall fine_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 prevent the installation of this malicious package by using npm's package-lock.json file to monitor dependencies. Ensure that your project does not include fine_kiwi_z3n by checking your package-lock.json for any references to it and removing them if found.
Conclusion
The fine_kiwi_z3n package poses a significant threat to the npm ecosystem due to its malicious code designed to manipulate package metadata and publish numerous variants. It is crucial for developers to take immediate action to remove this package and monitor their projects for similar vulnerabilities.
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FAQ
fine_kiwi_z3n is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign to inflate developer reputation scores through the automatic generation of derivative packages.
This vulnerability can lead to the pollution of the npm registry, potential security risks for your application, and damage to your developer reputation.
You should uninstall the fine_kiwi_z3n package immediately using 'npm uninstall fine_kiwi_z3n' and check for any other affected packages.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just the package-lock.json file. You can check your application for vulnerabilities using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner.
Regularly audit your dependencies, use tools like Vulert for real-time monitoring, and stay updated on known vulnerabilities in the packages you use.
Habilume
Habit tracker with a companion that grows with you
Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
