Malicious Code Injection in then_manatee_0xrequest Package
Summary
MAL-2025-109582: Malicious code in then_manatee_0xrequest (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The then_manatee_0xrequest package is part of the npm ecosystem, often used in JavaScript applications. It is associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which has been known to flood the npm registry with various packages. This package, like others in the campaign, is designed to manipulate npm's publishing system, potentially affecting developers' reputations and the integrity of the npm registry.
Vulnerability Detail
This vulnerability originates from the malicious design of the then_manatee_0xrequest package, which contains scripts that automatically generate and publish derivative packages with randomized names. These scripts modify the package.json file to remove private flags, alter version numbers, and continuously republish variants to pollute the npm registry. The ramifications include compromised developer reputations, potential security risks for applications using these packages, and a cluttered npm registry that makes it difficult to find legitimate packages.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall then_manatee_0xrequestIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
Currently, the best workaround is to avoid using the then_manatee_0xrequest package altogether. If it is already in use, ensure that you remove it and monitor your dependencies for any similar malicious packages. You can use tools like Vulert to monitor your project for vulnerabilities in real-time.
Conclusion
The then_manatee_0xrequest package poses a significant risk due to its malicious design aimed at manipulating the npm registry. It is essential to remove this package and monitor your dependencies to ensure the security and integrity of your applications.
See every vulnerability recorded for then_manatee_0xrequest →
FAQ
It is an npm package associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, designed to manipulate the npm publishing system.
The vulnerability can lead to the pollution of the npm registry and compromise the integrity of your application by introducing malicious code.
You should uninstall the then_manatee_0xrequest package immediately and check your project for any other potentially malicious packages.
Yes, you can use Vulert to monitor your project for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time without needing to access the code or installation.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
