Malicious Code Detected in Tensorflows Package: A PyPI Vulnerability
Summary
MAL-2025-191891: Malicious code in tensorflows (PyPI). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The 'tensorflows' package is a Python library available on the Python Package Index (PyPI) that is likely intended for machine learning and data manipulation tasks. However, it has been identified as a typosquatting package, which means it mimics the name of a legitimate package to deceive users. This vulnerability raises concerns about the safety and integrity of the software, as it may contain malicious code.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability stems from the 'tensorflows' package being a typosquatting attempt, where malicious actors create packages that closely resemble legitimate ones to trick users into installing them. Although no known malicious parts have been identified, the potential for harm exists, especially if users mistakenly believe they are using a trusted library. The package was introduced with a SHA256 hash of 'd47039abe1931b7e4e75ab44d59a042ff1d113feefd8b34711404fb8dfa83cf8', and it is categorized under PROBABLY_PENTEST, indicating it may be used for penetration testing or research but poses low-harm possibilities.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
pip uninstall tensorflowsIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a workaround, if you have already installed 'tensorflows', you can uninstall it using the command: 'pip uninstall tensorflows'. Then, install the correct package with: 'pip install tensorflow'.
Conclusion
The 'tensorflows' package poses a potential risk due to its nature as a typosquatting attempt. Users are advised to uninstall this package and switch to the legitimate 'tensorflow' package to ensure the safety and integrity of their applications. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor for vulnerabilities effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for tensorflows →
FAQ
Typosquatting is a malicious practice where attackers create packages with names similar to legitimate ones to deceive users into installing them.
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You should uninstall the 'tensorflows' package and install the legitimate 'tensorflow' package instead.
Currently, there are no known malicious parts identified in the 'tensorflows' package, but the risk of potential harm remains.
Vulert monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in software by analyzing the Pipfile.lock, ensuring that developers are aware of any potential risks.
