Malicious Code Vulnerability in jsonconfig-utils Package
Summary
MAL-2026-849: Malicious code in jsonconfig-utils (PyPI). Affects jsonconfig-utils versions 1.0.10 – 1.0.9. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The jsonconfig-utils package, available on PyPI, is designed to facilitate the management of JSON configuration files in Python applications. It provides utilities for reading, writing, and manipulating JSON data structures. However, this package has been found to contain malicious code that compromises the security of systems where it is installed.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from a malicious script embedded within the jsonconfig-utils package. During installation, this script listens for remote commands and executes them, posing a significant security risk. The script is also configured to run automatically on system startup, disguising itself as a legitimate system application. This malicious behavior allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the victim's machine, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or further exploitation.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
pip uninstall jsonconfig-utilsIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can prevent the malicious script from executing by disabling the autostart configuration where it has been added. This can typically be done by removing the script from the autostart directory or configuration files specific to the operating system being used.
Conclusion
The jsonconfig-utils package has been compromised with malicious code that poses significant risks to users. It is crucial to uninstall the affected versions and monitor your systems for any signs of exploitation. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in identifying vulnerabilities in your applications.
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FAQ
jsonconfig-utils is a Python package designed to manage JSON configuration files, providing utilities for reading and writing JSON data.
The malicious code listens for remote commands and executes them, which can lead to unauthorized access and control over your system.
Versions 1.0.3 to 1.0.11 of jsonconfig-utils are known to contain the malicious code.
You can use Vulert to monitor and alert for vulnerabilities in your application. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without needing to sign up.
Uninstall the affected versions immediately and check for any unauthorized changes to your system. Consider using a security tool to scan for potential threats.
