Malicious Code Detected in start-internal Package - npm Vulnerability
Summary
MAL-2025-191503: Malicious code in start-internal (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
The start-internal package is a Node.js library commonly used in npm projects. It is designed to facilitate internal operations and streamline development processes. However, it has been identified to contain malicious code, posing significant security risks to applications that utilize it.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from the malicious code embedded within the start-internal package. This code can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, or other harmful actions within the application. The malicious nature of this code was confirmed by Amazon Inspector, which detected the issue and reported it. The vulnerability affects all versions of the package starting from its introduction, making it critical for users to take immediate action.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall start-internalIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can remove the start-internal package from their project until a secure version is confirmed. This can be done by executing the following command: npm uninstall start-internal. Additionally, consider using alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks.
Conclusion
The discovery of malicious code in the start-internal package highlights the importance of maintaining secure dependencies in software projects. Users are strongly advised to update or remove the affected package to mitigate potential risks.
See every vulnerability recorded for start-internal →
FAQ
The start-internal package is a Node.js library used in npm projects for internal operations.
The malicious code was detected by Amazon Inspector, which identified the package as containing harmful elements.
Using the compromised package can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential exploitation of the application.
You can use Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without needing to sign up.
If immediate updates are not possible, consider removing the package and using alternative solutions until a secure version is available.
