Malicious Code Injection in rolling_clownfish_0xrequest Package
Summary
MAL-2025-108186: Malicious code in rolling_clownfish_0xrequest (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The rolling_clownfish_0xrequest package is part of the npm ecosystem, which is widely used for JavaScript package management. This package was identified as part of a larger campaign that aimed to exploit the npm registry by flooding it with malicious packages. The primary function of this package, like many others in the campaign, is to facilitate token rewards through the tea.xyz protocol. However, its malicious nature compromises the integrity of the npm ecosystem.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from the rolling_clownfish_0xrequest package, which contains malicious code designed to modify the package.json file. This code removes private flags, alters version numbers, and generates random package names, leading to the automatic publication of derivative packages. The ramifications include pollution of the npm registry, potential security risks for developers using these packages, and a degradation of trust in the npm ecosystem. The malicious payload is part of a broader strategy to inflate developer reputation scores for token rewards.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall rolling_clownfish_0xrequestIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary measure, avoid using the rolling_clownfish_0xrequest package and monitor your dependencies for any unauthorized changes. Regularly check your package.json file for any modifications that may indicate malicious activity.
Conclusion
The rolling_clownfish_0xrequest package poses a significant risk due to its malicious code designed to manipulate project files and pollute the npm registry. It is essential for developers to remove this package and monitor their dependencies to maintain the integrity of their projects.
See every vulnerability recorded for rolling_clownfish_0xrequest →
FAQ
It is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign to exploit the npm registry.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Check your application against the vulnerability using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner.
Using this package can lead to unauthorized modifications of your project files and potential security vulnerabilities.
Regularly audit your dependencies and use tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in real-time.
Uninstall the package immediately and review your project for any unauthorized changes.
