Malicious Code Injection in obvious_guan_z3n Package - npm Vulnerability
Summary
MAL-2025-95722: Malicious code in obvious_guan_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The obvious_guan_z3n package is part of a series of npm packages that emerged during the tea.xyz token reward campaign. These packages are designed to inflate developer reputation scores by automatically generating and publishing derivative packages with randomized names. The malicious nature of this package lies in its ability to modify critical files and republish variants, leading to potential abuse within the npm ecosystem.
Vulnerability Detail
This vulnerability originates from the package's design, which includes autopublish scripts that manipulate the package.json file. It removes private flags, alters version numbers, and generates random package names, effectively polluting the npm registry. The ramifications include the potential for developers to unknowingly install malicious packages, compromising their applications and systems.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall obvious_guan_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, avoid using the obvious_guan_z3n package and monitor your project for any dependencies that may have inadvertently included it. Regularly audit your npm packages using tools like npm audit to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The obvious_guan_z3n package poses a significant risk due to its malicious code designed to manipulate npm packages. It is essential to remove this package from your projects and monitor for any related vulnerabilities to ensure the security of your applications.
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FAQ
obvious_guan_z3n is an npm package that is part of a malicious campaign aimed at inflating developer reputation scores through automated package publishing.
The vulnerability can lead to the installation of malicious code, which may compromise your application's integrity and security.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without needing to sign up.
Immediately uninstall the package using npm uninstall obvious_guan_z3n and check your package-lock.json for any references.
Yes, tools like npm audit and Vulert can help you identify and manage vulnerabilities in your npm packages.
