Malicious Code Injection in querulous_cicada_dumbs Package
Summary
MAL-2025-107641: Malicious code in querulous_cicada_dumbs (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The querulous_cicada_dumbs package is part of the npm ecosystem, often used in JavaScript projects. It has been identified as part of a token reward campaign that floods the npm registry with malicious packages. These packages are designed to inflate developer reputation scores through automated publishing of derivative packages, which can lead to significant pollution of the npm registry.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the querulous_cicada_dumbs package stems from its malicious code that modifies the package.json file. This code removes private flags, alters version numbers, and generates random package names, contributing to the proliferation of spammy packages in the npm registry. The origin of this issue is linked to the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which incentivizes the creation of such packages. The ramifications include potential security risks for developers who unknowingly incorporate these packages into their projects, as well as the degradation of the npm ecosystem.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall querulous_cicada_dumbsIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary measure, you can avoid using the querulous_cicada_dumbs package and any other packages that may be part of the tea.xyz campaign. Regularly audit your package-lock.json file to identify and remove any suspicious packages.
Conclusion
The querulous_cicada_dumbs package poses a significant threat due to its malicious code that modifies project files and contributes to npm registry pollution. It is crucial for developers to remain vigilant, regularly audit their dependencies, and utilize tools like Vulert to ensure their projects remain secure.
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FAQ
It is a malicious npm package associated with a token reward campaign that floods the npm registry with spammy packages.
The malicious code modifies your package.json file, potentially leading to security vulnerabilities and pollution of the npm registry.
You can use Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without any signup.
You should uninstall the querulous_cicada_dumbs package immediately and review your dependencies for any other suspicious packages.
Yes, tools like Vulert can help monitor your project for vulnerabilities using just the package-lock.json file.
