Malicious Code Detected in pathlib-v2-utility: Data Exfiltration Risk
Summary
MAL-2026-697: Malicious code in pathlib-v2-utility (PyPI). Affects pathlib-v2-utility versions 1.0.4 – 1.0.5. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
pathlib-v2-utility is a Python package available on PyPI, designed for file system manipulation. It provides utilities for handling file paths in a more convenient way. However, this package has been identified to contain malicious code that can potentially exfiltrate data by communicating with a Telegram channel, posing a significant security risk to users.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from an obfuscated code embedded within the pathlib-v2-utility package. This code is designed to operate covertly, allowing it to communicate with a Telegram channel for data exfiltration purposes. The malicious intent is clear, as it disguises itself as a legitimate library while performing unauthorized actions in the background. Users of this package may unknowingly expose sensitive information, leading to potential data breaches.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
pip uninstall pathlib-v2-utilityIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid using the pathlib-v2-utility package and seek alternative libraries for file system manipulation. Additionally, users should monitor their systems for any unusual activity that may indicate data exfiltration.
Conclusion
The pathlib-v2-utility package has been identified as containing malicious code that poses a risk of data exfiltration. Users are advised to uninstall the package and monitor their systems for any unusual activity. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in identifying vulnerabilities in open-source software.
See every vulnerability recorded for pathlib-v2-utility →
FAQ
pathlib-v2-utility is a Python package designed for file system manipulation, providing utilities for easier handling of file paths.
The vulnerability is classified as malicious, with the package containing obfuscated code intended for data exfiltration.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without any signup.
You should uninstall the package immediately and consider using alternative libraries for file system manipulation.
As of now, there is no patched version available. It is recommended to remove the package entirely.
