Malicious Code Injection in forward_roundworm_z3n Package - npm Vulnerability
Summary
MAL-2025-94588: Malicious code in forward_roundworm_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The forward_roundworm_z3n package is part of a series of malicious npm packages associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign. These packages are designed to manipulate the npm registry by generating and publishing numerous derivative packages with randomized names, aimed at inflating developer reputation scores for token rewards. The package's functionality is compromised, leading to potential security risks for developers and users relying on it.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability stems from the malicious code embedded within the forward_roundworm_z3n package. This code modifies the package.json file to remove private flags, alters version numbers, and generates random package names, effectively polluting the npm registry. The origin of this issue is linked to the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which employs autopublish scripts to automate the creation and publication of these harmful packages. The ramifications include a compromised npm registry, potential security breaches for applications using these packages, and a degradation of trust in the npm ecosystem.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall forward_roundworm_z3nIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary measure, avoid using the forward_roundworm_z3n package and consider replacing it with a reputable alternative. Additionally, you can monitor your project for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert, which analyzes your package-lock.json file to alert you of any open-source vulnerabilities in real-time.
Conclusion
The forward_roundworm_z3n package poses a significant security risk due to its malicious code that alters package metadata and pollutes the npm registry. It is essential for developers to remove this package and monitor their projects for vulnerabilities to maintain the integrity of their applications.
See every vulnerability recorded for forward_roundworm_z3n →
FAQ
The forward_roundworm_z3n package is a malicious npm package that is part of a campaign to inflate developer reputation scores through the automated generation of derivative packages.
This vulnerability can lead to security breaches, as it modifies your project's package.json file and can introduce harmful code into your application.
You should immediately remove the forward_roundworm_z3n package from your project and monitor for any updates or patches that may be released.
You can use Vulert to monitor your project for vulnerabilities by analyzing your package-lock.json file. It provides real-time alerts for any open-source vulnerabilities.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
