Malicious Code Injection in valid_kite_z3n Package - npm Vulnerability
Summary
MAL-2025-110322: Malicious code in valid_kite_z3n (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The valid_kite_z3n package is part of the npm ecosystem and is associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign. This package is designed to facilitate token rewards through automated scripts that generate and publish derivative packages. However, it has been compromised to include malicious code that affects its integrity and security.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability originates from a malicious payload embedded within the valid_kite_z3n package. This payload modifies the package.json file by removing private flags, altering version numbers, and generating random package names. The intent is to inflate developer reputation scores for token rewards while polluting the npm registry with numerous derivative packages. This can lead to significant security risks, including the potential for further exploitation and the degradation of the npm ecosystem.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall valid_kite_z3nIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
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Workaround
As a temporary measure, you can avoid using the valid_kite_z3n package and look for alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks. Additionally, you can monitor your project for any unauthorized changes to package.json.
Conclusion
The valid_kite_z3n package has been identified as containing malicious code that compromises the integrity of npm projects. It is crucial to remove this package and monitor your project for any unauthorized changes. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help maintain the security of your open-source dependencies.
See every vulnerability recorded for valid_kite_z3n →
FAQ
The valid_kite_z3n package is an npm package associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, designed to automate the generation and publication of derivative packages.
The malicious code modifies your package.json file, potentially leading to unauthorized changes and the introduction of insecure packages into your project.
You should uninstall the valid_kite_z3n package immediately using 'npm uninstall valid_kite_z3n' and check for any dependencies that may be affected.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities using just your package-lock.json file. You can check if your application is affected by this vulnerability using the Vulert playground.
Regularly audit your dependencies, keep your packages updated, and utilize tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in your open-source software.
