Malicious Code Injection in intact_duck_z3n Package - npm Vulnerability
Summary
MAL-2025-104271: Malicious code in intact_duck_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The intact_duck_z3n package is part of the npm ecosystem, which is widely used for managing JavaScript packages. This package has been associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which has led to the proliferation of malicious packages designed to inflate developer reputation scores. The package's functionality has been compromised, making it a vector for malicious activities.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the intact_duck_z3n package originates from its association with a malicious campaign that employs autopublish scripts to generate and publish derivative packages with randomized names. This behavior modifies the package.json file by removing private flags, altering version numbers, and continuously republishing variants, which pollutes the npm registry. The ramifications include potential security risks for developers who unknowingly use these compromised packages, leading to reputational damage and possible exploitation of their applications.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall intact_duck_z3nIf 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 avoid using the intact_duck_z3n package altogether and look for alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks.
Conclusion
The intact_duck_z3n package poses a significant security risk due to its malicious code designed to manipulate the npm registry. Developers should take immediate action to remove this package and monitor their projects for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert. Staying vigilant and informed is essential to maintaining the security of your applications.
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FAQ
The intact_duck_z3n package is an npm package that has been linked to a malicious campaign aimed at inflating developer reputation scores through the publication of compromised packages.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By analyzing your package-lock.json file, Vulert can help you identify if your application is affected by this vulnerability.
Using the intact_duck_z3n package can lead to security vulnerabilities in your application, including potential exploitation and reputational damage due to the pollution of the npm registry.
To prevent similar vulnerabilities, regularly audit your dependencies, use tools like Vulert for real-time monitoring, and stay informed about known vulnerabilities in the npm ecosystem.
If you have already used the intact_duck_z3n package, it is crucial to uninstall it immediately and replace it with a secure alternative. Additionally, review your project's dependencies for any other potential vulnerabilities.
