Malicious Code Injection in outer_booby_0xrequest Package - npm Vulnerability
Summary
MAL-2025-106825: Malicious code in outer_booby_0xrequest (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The outer_booby_0xrequest package is part of a series of malicious packages that emerged during the tea.xyz token reward campaign. These packages are designed to manipulate the npm registry by creating and publishing numerous derivative packages with randomized names. The primary functionality of this package is to serve as a conduit for malicious scripts that alter package metadata and inflate developer reputation scores.
Vulnerability Detail
This vulnerability originates from the outer_booby_0xrequest package, which contains malicious code that modifies the package.json file to remove private flags, alters version numbers, and generates random package names. The malicious payload continuously republishes these variants, leading to pollution of the npm registry. This can result in compromised security for developers who may unknowingly use these manipulated packages, potentially leading to further exploitation.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall outer_booby_0xrequestIf 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 outer_booby_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 outer_booby_0xrequest package poses a significant security risk due to its malicious code that alters package metadata and floods the npm registry. It is crucial for developers to remove this package and monitor their dependencies to maintain application security.
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FAQ
It is a malicious npm package that modifies package metadata and floods the npm registry with derivative packages.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Check your application against this vulnerability using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner.
Using this package can lead to security vulnerabilities, including exposure to malicious code and potential exploitation of your application.
Regularly audit your dependencies using npm audit, remove any malicious packages, and keep your packages updated to their latest secure versions.
Implementing strict dependency management practices, using tools like Vulert for monitoring, and conducting regular security audits can help prevent similar vulnerabilities.
