Critical Malicious Code Vulnerability in json-merge-tool Package
Summary
MAL-2026-1297: Malicious code in json-merge-tool (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Habilume
Habit tracker with a companion that grows with you
Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
Background
The json-merge-tool is an npm package designed to facilitate the merging of JSON objects. It is commonly used in JavaScript applications to streamline data handling and configuration management. However, this package has been identified as containing malicious code, posing significant security risks to systems utilizing it.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from the presence of embedded malicious code within the json-merge-tool package. This code can compromise any computer where the package is installed, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information such as secrets and keys. The ramifications of this vulnerability are severe, as it can lead to complete system compromise, making it imperative for users to take immediate action.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall json-merge-toolIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
As a workaround, users should immediately uninstall the json-merge-tool package using the command: npm uninstall json-merge-tool. Additionally, ensure that all sensitive data is secured and rotated to mitigate potential risks.
Conclusion
The json-merge-tool package has been identified as containing malicious code that can severely compromise systems. Users must take immediate action to remove the package and secure their sensitive information. Continuous monitoring for updates and vulnerabilities is crucial for maintaining system security.
See every vulnerability recorded for json-merge-tool →
FAQ
json-merge-tool is an npm package used for merging JSON objects in JavaScript applications.
The malicious code can compromise the system, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information and potentially leading to full system control.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any installation.
Immediately uninstall the json-merge-tool package and rotate any secrets or keys stored on the affected system.
Currently, there is no patched version available. Users are advised to remove the package and secure their systems.
References
Habilume
Habit tracker with a companion that grows with you
Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
