Malicious Code Injection in sparkling_kiwi_0xrequest Package
Summary
MAL-2025-108968: Malicious code in sparkling_kiwi_0xrequest (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The sparkling_kiwi_0xrequest package is part of the npm ecosystem, primarily used for handling HTTP requests in JavaScript applications. However, it has been identified as part of a malicious campaign that exploits npm's publishing system. This package is linked to the tea.xyz token reward initiative, which has led to the proliferation of numerous derivative packages that aim to inflate developer reputation scores.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from the package's 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 to pollute the npm registry. This behavior can lead to security risks, including the potential for developers to unknowingly use compromised packages, which may contain harmful code.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall sparkling_kiwi_0xrequestIf 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 remove the sparkling_kiwi_0xrequest package from your project by running: npm uninstall sparkling_kiwi_0xrequest. This will prevent any malicious code from executing until a secure version is available.
Conclusion
The sparkling_kiwi_0xrequest package has been identified as containing malicious code that can compromise the security of applications using it. It is crucial to take immediate action by updating or removing the package and monitoring for any future vulnerabilities.
See every vulnerability recorded for sparkling_kiwi_0xrequest →
FAQ
It is an npm package used for handling HTTP requests, but it has been compromised with malicious code.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Check your application against this vulnerability using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner.
You should uninstall the package immediately and check for any updates or patches that may address the vulnerability.
Yes, using a compromised package can introduce malicious code into your project, posing significant security risks.
Regularly monitor your dependencies using tools like Vulert and keep your packages updated to the latest secure versions.
