Malicious Code Injection in willowy_capybara_0xrequest Package
Summary
MAL-2025-110941: Malicious code in willowy_capybara_0xrequest (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
The willowy_capybara_0xrequest package is part of the npm ecosystem, primarily used for JavaScript applications. It is associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which has been known to flood the npm registry with numerous packages. This package, like others in the campaign, is designed to manipulate developer reputation scores through automated publishing of derivative packages.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability stems from malicious code embedded within the willowy_capybara_0xrequest package. This code modifies the package.json file by removing private flags, altering version numbers, and generating random package names, which can lead to the pollution of the npm registry. The malicious payload is designed to continuously republish these variants, potentially compromising the integrity of the npm ecosystem and affecting developers who rely on these packages.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall willowy_capybara_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, consider using alternative packages that provide similar functionality without the associated risks. Ensure to review the package's reputation and community feedback before integrating it into your project.
Conclusion
The willowy_capybara_0xrequest package contains malicious code that poses significant risks to developers and the npm ecosystem. It is crucial to remove this package and monitor your projects for vulnerabilities using tools like Vulert.
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FAQ
It is an npm package associated with the tea.xyz token reward campaign, which has been linked to malicious activities.
The malicious code can alter your package.json, leading to potential security risks and pollution of the npm registry.
You should uninstall the package immediately and consider using alternatives.
Yes, you can use tools like Vulert, which monitors your package-lock.json for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check for vulnerabilities without needing to sign up.
