Malicious Code Vulnerability in round_ape_z3n Package
Summary
MAL-2025-108210: Malicious code in round_ape_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The round_ape_z3n package is part of the npm ecosystem, often utilized in JavaScript applications for various functionalities. However, it has been identified as part of a malicious campaign that floods the npm registry with derivative packages designed to manipulate developer reputation scores. This vulnerability poses significant risks to developers and users relying on this package.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from the round_ape_z3n package, which is linked to a broader malicious activity involving the tea.xyz token reward campaign. The package contains scripts that automatically modify package.json files to remove private flags, change version numbers, and generate random package names. This behavior leads to the pollution of the npm registry and can compromise the integrity of applications that depend on this package.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall round_ape_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 round_ape_z3n package and consider alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks. Additionally, you can implement strict package management practices to monitor and control the packages used in your application.
Conclusion
The round_ape_z3n package poses a significant security risk due to its malicious code designed to manipulate npm registry integrity. It is essential for developers to remove this package and monitor their applications for vulnerabilities to maintain security and reliability.
See every vulnerability recorded for round_ape_z3n →
FAQ
The round_ape_z3n package is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign to manipulate developer reputation scores.
This vulnerability can lead to the pollution of the npm registry, potentially compromising the integrity and security of applications that depend on the affected package.
You should remove the round_ape_z3n package from your project and monitor for any updates or patches that may be released.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities using just package-lock.json. You can check if your application is affected by this vulnerability using the Vulert playground.
Regularly audit your dependencies, update packages to their latest versions, and utilize tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in your open-source software.
