Malicious Code Injection in mean_minnow_0xrequest Package
Summary
MAL-2025-105734: Malicious code in mean_minnow_0xrequest (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The mean_minnow_0xrequest package is part of the npm ecosystem, often utilized in JavaScript applications for various functionalities. However, it has been identified as part of a malicious campaign that floods the npm registry with harmful packages. This package, like others in the campaign, is designed to manipulate developer reputation scores through automated publishing of derivative packages.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from a malicious payload embedded within the mean_minnow_0xrequest package. This payload modifies the package.json file by removing private flags, altering version numbers, and generating random package names, which are often themed around Indonesian culture. The primary risk is that it can lead to the pollution of the npm registry, making it difficult for developers to find legitimate packages and potentially introducing security risks into applications that depend on these packages.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall mean_minnow_0xrequestIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary measure, avoid using the mean_minnow_0xrequest package and consider using alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks. Additionally, regularly audit your package dependencies using tools like npm audit.
Conclusion
The mean_minnow_0xrequest package poses significant risks due to its malicious payload designed to manipulate npm registry integrity. It is essential to remove this package from your projects and monitor for any updates or patches. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help maintain the security of your applications.
See every vulnerability recorded for mean_minnow_0xrequest →
FAQ
It is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign to manipulate developer reputation scores.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Check your application against the vulnerability using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner.
Using this package can lead to security vulnerabilities, including the potential for malicious code execution and pollution of the npm registry.
Currently, the best course of action is to uninstall the package. Monitor for any updates or patches that may be released in the future.
Regularly audit your dependencies, use trusted sources for packages, and consider using tools like Vulert for real-time monitoring.
