Malicious Code Exploit in super_rat_z3n: A Threat to npm Ecosystem
Summary
MAL-2025-90799: Malicious code in super_rat_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The package 'super_rat_z3n' is part of a series of malicious npm packages that emerged during the tea.xyz token reward campaign. These packages are designed to inflate developer reputation scores by automatically generating and publishing derivative packages with randomized names. The malicious nature of this package lies in its ability to modify critical files and continuously pollute the npm registry.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in 'super_rat_z3n' originates from its design to include autopublish scripts that alter the package.json file by removing private flags and changing version numbers. This allows the package to generate random names, often themed around Indonesian culture, and republish itself, leading to a polluted npm registry. The ramifications include potential security risks for developers who unknowingly use this package, as it can compromise their projects and inflate the npm ecosystem with unwanted packages.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall super_rat_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 remove the 'super_rat_z3n' package from your project by executing the following command: npm uninstall super_rat_z3n. This will prevent any malicious code from executing in your application.
Conclusion
The 'super_rat_z3n' package poses a significant threat to the npm ecosystem due to its malicious code designed to manipulate package data and republish itself. Developers are advised to uninstall this package and monitor their applications for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert.
See every vulnerability recorded for super_rat_z3n →
FAQ
The vulnerability involves malicious code that modifies package.json files and republishes the package with random names, leading to potential security risks.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without needing to sign up.
You should uninstall the package immediately and check for any updates or patches that may address the vulnerability.
Yes, using this package can lead to security breaches, as it may introduce unwanted code and inflate the npm registry with malicious packages.
Vulert uses the package-lock.json file to monitor and alert users in real-time about open-source vulnerabilities, ensuring your application remains secure.
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Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
