Malicious Code Injection in super_manatee_z3n Package - npm Vulnerability
Summary
MAL-2025-90798: Malicious code in super_manatee_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The super_manatee_z3n package is part of the npm ecosystem, primarily used for JavaScript development. It is often involved in various projects requiring package management and dependency handling. However, this package has been identified as part of a malicious campaign that exploits npm's publishing mechanisms, leading to significant security risks for developers and their applications.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the super_manatee_z3n package stems from its association with a malicious campaign that floods the npm registry with derivative packages. These packages contain scripts designed to modify the package.json file, removing private flags and changing version numbers. This allows the package to continuously republish variants, polluting the npm registry and potentially compromising the integrity of applications that depend on it. The malicious payload can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and a loss of developer reputation.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall super_manatee_z3n
If 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 the super_manatee_z3n package by adding it to your project's .npmrc file with the following line: 'package-lock=false'. This will help avoid pulling in this malicious package until a fix is implemented.
Conclusion
The super_manatee_z3n package poses a significant security risk due to its malicious code that alters package metadata and repopulates the npm registry with compromised versions. It is essential for developers to take immediate action by removing the package and monitoring their projects for vulnerabilities.
See every vulnerability recorded for super_manatee_z3n →
FAQ
The super_manatee_z3n package is an npm package used in JavaScript development, but it has been identified as part of a malicious campaign.
This vulnerability can lead to unauthorized modifications in your package.json file, potentially compromising your application's security and integrity.
You should immediately uninstall the package using 'npm uninstall super_manatee_z3n' and check for any other affected packages.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time using your package-lock.json file.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without needing to sign up.