Malicious Code Injection in handicapped_primate_0xrequest Package
Summary
MAL-2025-103575: Malicious code in handicapped_primate_0xrequest (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The handicapped_primate_0xrequest package is part of the npm ecosystem, typically used for various JavaScript functionalities. However, it has been identified as part of a malicious campaign that floods the npm registry with derivative packages. These packages are designed to inflate developer reputation scores through automated scripts that publish numerous variants with altered names and metadata.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from the package being involved in a token reward campaign that exploits npm's publishing system. It includes malicious scripts that modify the package.json file by removing private flags, changing version numbers, and generating random package names. This leads to the continuous republishing of these variants, polluting the npm registry and potentially compromising the integrity of dependent projects.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall handicapped_primate_0xrequestIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a workaround, you can manually remove the package from your project by executing the following command: npm uninstall handicapped_primate_0xrequest. Additionally, consider using alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks.
Conclusion
The handicapped_primate_0xrequest package poses a significant risk due to its involvement in a malicious campaign that alters package metadata and floods the npm registry. It is crucial to remove this package from your project and monitor for any potential vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert.
See every vulnerability recorded for handicapped_primate_0xrequest →
FAQ
It is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign to inflate developer reputation scores.
The vulnerability can lead to the pollution of the npm registry and may compromise the integrity of your project by introducing malicious code.
You should uninstall the package immediately and check for any alternative packages that can fulfill your requirements.
Currently, there are no patches available for the handicapped_primate_0xrequest package. It is recommended to remove it from your project.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time using just your package-lock.json. You can check your application for vulnerabilities using the Vulert playground without any signup.
