Malicious Code Injection in repulsive_sole_z3n: A Threat to npm Packages
Summary
MAL-2025-96310: Malicious code in repulsive_sole_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The package 'repulsive_sole_z3n' is part of a malicious campaign targeting the npm ecosystem, specifically linked to the tea.xyz token reward initiative. This package is designed to manipulate the npm registry by creating and publishing numerous derivative packages with randomized names. Its primary function is to inflate developer reputation scores for token rewards, which poses a significant risk to the integrity of the npm ecosystem.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in 'repulsive_sole_z3n' stems from its malicious code that modifies the package.json file by removing private flags and altering version numbers. It generates random package names, often themed around Indonesian culture, and continuously republishes these variants, leading to pollution of the npm registry. This not only affects the reputation of legitimate developers but also compromises the security and reliability of the npm ecosystem.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall repulsive_sole_z3nIf 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 'repulsive_sole_z3n' package and monitor your dependencies for any malicious activity. You can also utilize tools like Vulert to scan your package-lock.json file for vulnerabilities. For real-time monitoring, visit the Vulert playground at https://vulert.com/scanner.
Conclusion
The 'repulsive_sole_z3n' package poses a significant threat to the npm ecosystem due to its malicious code that manipulates package metadata and floods the registry with derivative packages. It is essential to remove this package and monitor your dependencies to maintain the security and integrity of your projects.
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FAQ
It is a malicious npm package that is part of a campaign to inflate developer reputation scores through the creation of numerous derivative packages.
The vulnerability can lead to the pollution of the npm registry, affecting the integrity of your project and potentially introducing security risks.
You should uninstall the 'repulsive_sole_z3n' package immediately and check your other dependencies for any vulnerabilities.
You can use tools like Vulert, which allows you to monitor your package-lock.json for vulnerabilities without requiring installation.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check your application for vulnerabilities without signing up.
