Malicious Code Injection in uniform_hare_z3n: A Threat to npm Packages
Summary
MAL-2025-97137: Malicious code in uniform_hare_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The package 'uniform_hare_z3n' is part of the npm ecosystem, which is widely used for JavaScript package management. It is associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which has been linked to a series of malicious activities aimed at inflating developer reputation scores. This package, like others in the campaign, is designed to automatically generate and publish derivative packages, potentially leading to a polluted npm registry.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in 'uniform_hare_z3n' originates from its association with the tea.xyz token reward campaign. It contains malicious scripts that modify the package.json file by removing private flags, changing version numbers, and generating random package names. This behavior not only compromises the integrity of the package but also contributes to the pollution of the npm registry, making it difficult for developers to trust the packages they use. The malicious payload is designed to continuously republish variants, exacerbating the issue.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall uniform_hare_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 avoid using the 'uniform_hare_z3n' package and look for alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks. Always verify the integrity and reputation of packages before installation.
Conclusion
The 'uniform_hare_z3n' package poses a significant security risk due to its malicious code that alters package files and contributes to npm registry pollution. It is crucial for developers to remove this package from their projects and utilize tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
The main issue is that it contains malicious code that modifies package.json files and repackages itself, leading to potential security risks and npm registry pollution.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. You can check your application using the Vulert playground without any signup at Vulert Scanner.
If you have installed 'uniform_hare_z3n', you should uninstall it immediately using 'npm uninstall uniform_hare_z3n' and look for alternative packages.
While specific alternatives depend on the functionality you need, always look for well-reviewed and maintained packages in the npm registry.
To prevent similar vulnerabilities, regularly audit your dependencies, use tools like Vulert for monitoring, and only install packages from trusted sources.
