Malicious Code Injection in ok_marlin_z3n Package - npm Vulnerability
Summary
MAL-2025-89140: Malicious code in ok_marlin_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The ok_marlin_z3n package is part of the npm ecosystem and is associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign. This package is designed to facilitate token rewards through the automatic generation and publication of derivative packages. However, it has been identified as containing malicious code that compromises its integrity and the security of the npm registry.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the ok_marlin_z3n package originates from its association with a campaign that floods the npm registry with malicious packages. The malicious code modifies the package.json file to remove private flags, alters version numbers, and generates random package names, leading to the pollution of the npm registry. This can result in developers inadvertently using compromised packages, which may expose their applications to further vulnerabilities and security risks.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall ok_marlin_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, you can avoid using the ok_marlin_z3n package and look for alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks. Additionally, consider using tools like Vulert to monitor your package-lock.json file for vulnerabilities in real-time.
Conclusion
The ok_marlin_z3n package has been identified as containing malicious code that compromises the security of the npm registry. It is crucial for developers to uninstall this package and monitor their applications for vulnerabilities. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help maintain the integrity of your software by providing real-time alerts for open-source vulnerabilities.
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FAQ
The ok_marlin_z3n package is part of the npm ecosystem and is involved in the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which aims to inflate developer reputation scores through automated package publishing.
The malicious code can modify your package.json file, remove private flags, and publish compromised packages, potentially leading to security vulnerabilities in your application.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
If you have installed the ok_marlin_z3n package, you should uninstall it immediately using the command npm uninstall ok_marlin_z3n and look for secure alternatives.
To prevent similar vulnerabilities, regularly update your dependencies, use tools like Vulert to monitor your packages, and only install packages from trusted sources.
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Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
