Malicious Code Injection in select_primate_z3n Package
Summary
MAL-2025-96496: Malicious code in select_primate_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The select_primate_z3n package is part of the npm ecosystem, primarily used for various JavaScript applications. It is associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which has been known to flood the npm registry with packages that inflate developer reputation scores. This package, like others in the campaign, is designed to automatically generate and publish derivative packages, making it a target for malicious exploitation.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the select_primate_z3n package originates from its association with malicious scripts that modify the package.json file. These scripts remove private flags, alter version numbers, and generate random package names, leading to the pollution of the npm registry. The ramifications include potential security risks for developers who unknowingly use this package, as it can lead to unauthorized access and manipulation of their projects.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall select_primate_z3nIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, developers should avoid using the select_primate_z3n package and remove it from their projects. You can uninstall the package using the following command: npm uninstall select_primate_z3n.
Conclusion
The select_primate_z3n package has been identified as containing malicious code that can compromise the security of projects using it. It is essential for developers to take immediate action by removing the package and monitoring their applications for any unauthorized changes. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in maintaining the security of your software.
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FAQ
The select_primate_z3n package is an npm package associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which aims to inflate developer reputation scores.
The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized modifications in your project's package.json file, potentially compromising the security and integrity of your application.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just package-lock.json. You can check your application for vulnerabilities using the Vulert playground.
If you have used the select_primate_z3n package, it is crucial to uninstall it immediately and check for any unauthorized changes in your project.
Regularly audit your dependencies, use tools like Vulert for monitoring vulnerabilities, and keep your packages updated to their latest secure versions.
