Malicious Code Injection in shallow_octopus_z3n Package
Summary
MAL-2025-90475: Malicious code in shallow_octopus_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The shallow_octopus_z3n package is part of the npm ecosystem, often utilized in JavaScript projects for various functionalities. However, it has been identified as part of a malicious campaign that floods the npm registry with derivative packages. This package is designed to manipulate developer reputation scores for token rewards, making it a significant concern for developers relying on npm packages.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the shallow_octopus_z3n package stems from its malicious code, which modifies the package.json file to remove private flags and alters version numbers. It generates random package names, often themed around Indonesian culture, and continuously republishes these variants, polluting the npm registry. This behavior can lead to security risks, including the potential for unauthorized access to sensitive data and the compromise of project integrity.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall shallow_octopus_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, you can prevent the installation of this package by using npm's package-lock.json file to monitor dependencies. Additionally, consider using tools like Vulert to scan your project for vulnerabilities. You can check if your application is affected by visiting the Vulert playground at https://vulert.com/scanner without needing to sign up.
Conclusion
The shallow_octopus_z3n package poses a significant risk due to its malicious code that alters project files and repopulates the npm registry with harmful variants. It is essential for developers to take immediate action to remove this package and implement monitoring tools to safeguard their projects against similar vulnerabilities in the future.
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FAQ
shallow_octopus_z3n is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign to inflate developer reputation scores through the creation of derivative packages.
The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized modifications in your project, potentially compromising its integrity and exposing sensitive data.
You should uninstall the shallow_octopus_z3n package immediately and monitor your project for any unusual behavior.
Yes, regularly audit your dependencies, use tools like Vulert for real-time monitoring, and stay updated on security advisories for the packages you use.
You can find detailed information about this vulnerability in the official npm advisory or by checking security databases like Vulert.
