Critical Malicious Code Vulnerability in optimizer-cpu Package
Summary
MAL-2026-765: Malicious code in optimizer-cpu (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The optimizer-cpu package is a Node.js library commonly used in JavaScript applications for optimizing CPU usage. It is designed to enhance performance by managing computational tasks efficiently. However, this package has been found to contain malicious code that poses significant security risks to any system utilizing it.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from the presence of embedded malicious code within the optimizer-cpu package. This code can compromise the entire system where the package is installed, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information such as secrets and keys. The malicious nature of this code is classified under CWE-506, indicating that it appears to be intentionally harmful. Systems running this package should be considered fully compromised, and immediate action is required to mitigate potential damage.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall optimizer-cpuIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a workaround, ensure that the optimizer-cpu package is uninstalled using the command: npm uninstall optimizer-cpu. Additionally, monitor your system for any unusual activity and consider using security tools to scan for remaining threats.
Conclusion
The optimizer-cpu package contains malicious code that poses a serious security threat. Immediate action is required to remove the package and secure any sensitive information. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor for vulnerabilities in the future.
See every vulnerability recorded for optimizer-cpu →
FAQ
The optimizer-cpu package is a Node.js library designed to optimize CPU usage in JavaScript applications, enhancing performance and efficiency.
The malicious code can compromise your entire system, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information and potentially leading to data breaches.
Immediately uninstall the optimizer-cpu package and rotate any secrets or keys stored on the affected system.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. You can check your application using the Vulert playground without any signup.
Vulert is a tool that monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just the package-lock.json file, providing real-time alerts for any issues.
