Malicious Code Injection in interim_mouse_z3n Package
Summary
MAL-2025-95089: Malicious code in interim_mouse_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The interim_mouse_z3n package is part of the npm ecosystem and is associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign. This package is designed to facilitate automated publishing of derivative packages, which can inflate developer reputation scores for token rewards. However, its functionality has been compromised, leading to significant security concerns.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the interim_mouse_z3n package stems from its malicious code that modifies the package.json file. This code removes private flags, alters version numbers, and generates random package names, which can lead to pollution of the npm registry. The origin of this vulnerability is linked to a broader campaign that aims to exploit npm's publishing system, potentially affecting developers' reputations and the integrity of the npm ecosystem.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall interim_mouse_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 remove the interim_mouse_z3n package from your project by executing: npm uninstall interim_mouse_z3n. This will prevent any malicious activity associated with this package until a fix is applied.
Conclusion
The interim_mouse_z3n package contains a serious vulnerability that can compromise your project's integrity and reputation. It is crucial to take immediate action by updating or removing the package and monitoring your project for any further vulnerabilities.
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FAQ
The interim_mouse_z3n package is an npm package involved in automated publishing for the tea.xyz token reward campaign.
The vulnerability can lead to the modification of your package.json file and the potential pollution of the npm registry, affecting your project's integrity.
You should check the npm registry for any updates to the interim_mouse_z3n package that address this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time using your package-lock.json file.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check for vulnerabilities in your application without any signup.
