Malicious Code Injection in unknown_canid_0xrequest Package
Summary
MAL-2025-110148: Malicious code in unknown_canid_0xrequest (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The unknown_canid_0xrequest package is part of the npm ecosystem, which is widely used for JavaScript package management. This package was identified as part of a malicious campaign that aimed to exploit the npm registry by flooding it with derivative packages. These packages are designed to inflate developer reputation scores through automated publishing scripts, which can lead to significant pollution of the npm registry and compromise the integrity of the ecosystem.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in the unknown_canid_0xrequest package stems from its malicious payload that modifies the package.json file. It removes private flags, alters version numbers, and generates random package names, primarily themed around Indonesian culture. This behavior not only affects the integrity of the affected package but also contributes to the overall degradation of the npm registry by continuously republishing variants, making it difficult for developers to trust the packages available.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall unknown_canid_0xrequestIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, avoid using the unknown_canid_0xrequest package and consider using alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks. Additionally, regularly audit your dependencies using tools like npm audit to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The unknown_canid_0xrequest package poses a significant risk due to its malicious behavior that compromises the npm registry. It is crucial for developers to be vigilant and remove any affected packages from their projects. Utilizing tools like Vulert can aid in monitoring for vulnerabilities and ensuring the security of your applications.
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FAQ
It is an npm package that has been identified as part of a malicious campaign to manipulate the npm registry.
The vulnerability can lead to the pollution of your project's dependencies and compromise the integrity of the npm registry.
You should uninstall the package immediately and monitor your project for any potential impacts.
Yes, tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert you in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in your software.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
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Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
