Malicious Code Exfiltration in shortneer Package
Summary
MAL-2026-17422: Malicious code in shortneer (PyPI). Affects shortneer versions 0.1.0. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The shortneer package, available on PyPI, is designed for URL shortening services. It allows users to create shortened links for easier sharing. However, this package has been compromised, leading to significant security concerns. The malicious version of shortneer is capable of exfiltrating sensitive files from users' systems, particularly targeting Chrome extension files and Telegram data.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from a malicious code embedded in the shortneer package, specifically in version 0.1.0. This code is designed to exfiltrate sensitive information, including files related to cryptocurrency wallets and Telegram communications. The campaign associated with this vulnerability, identified as '2026-09-sherpy', indicates a clear intent to steal information, making it a serious infostealer threat. Users of this package are at risk of having their sensitive data compromised.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
pip uninstall shortneerIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid using the shortneer package until a secure version is released. Additionally, consider using alternative URL shortening services that do not pose security risks.
Conclusion
The shortneer package has been compromised, leading to a serious vulnerability that can exfiltrate sensitive user data. It is crucial for users to uninstall the affected version and monitor for updates. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in identifying and managing such vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
shortneer is a Python package used for creating shortened URLs, making it easier to share links.
The vulnerability allows malicious code to exfiltrate sensitive files from users' systems, particularly targeting cryptocurrency wallets and Telegram files.
If you have installed shortneer, uninstall it immediately and check for any updates or alternatives.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. You can check your application against known vulnerabilities using the Vulert playground.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring a signup.
