Malicious Code Injection in modest_macaw_z3n: A Threat to npm Ecosystem
Summary
MAL-2025-95526: Malicious code in modest_macaw_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
modest_macaw_z3n is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign targeting the npm registry. This package is associated with the tea.xyz token reward initiative, which has been known to flood the npm ecosystem with harmful packages. The primary function of this package, like others in the campaign, is to manipulate the npm registry by generating and publishing derivative packages with altered metadata, ultimately aiming to inflate developer reputation scores for token rewards.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in modest_macaw_z3n stems from its malicious code designed to modify the package.json file. This code removes private flags, alters version numbers, and generates random package names, primarily themed around Indonesian culture, to create a multitude of derivative packages. The continuous republishing of these variants leads to pollution of the npm registry, which can compromise the integrity of the ecosystem and affect developers relying on legitimate packages.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall modest_macaw_z3nIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary measure, you can prevent the installation of the malicious package by adding it to your npm ignore list or by using the following command to audit your dependencies: 'npm audit'. This will help identify any vulnerabilities in your current packages.
Conclusion
The modest_macaw_z3n package poses a significant risk due to its malicious code that alters package metadata and floods the npm registry. It is essential for developers to take immediate action by updating or removing the package to safeguard their applications. Utilizing tools like Vulert can further enhance security by providing real-time monitoring for vulnerabilities.
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FAQ
modest_macaw_z3n is an npm package that has been flagged for containing malicious code as part of a campaign to manipulate the npm registry.
The vulnerability can lead to the pollution of the npm registry, potentially compromising the integrity of your application and affecting its dependencies.
You should immediately update the package to a patched version or uninstall it to mitigate any risks associated with the vulnerability.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time using just your package-lock.json file. You can check your application for vulnerabilities without any signup at the Vulert playground.
Regularly auditing your dependencies and keeping them updated can help prevent similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, using tools like Vulert can provide real-time alerts for any new vulnerabilities.
