Malicious Code Detected in async-swc-plugin: A Critical Security Alert
Summary
MAL-2025-14993: Malicious code in async-swc-plugin (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
The async-swc-plugin is an npm package designed to enhance the performance of JavaScript applications by integrating with the SWC (Speedy Web Compiler). It allows developers to leverage modern JavaScript features while maintaining compatibility with older environments. However, recent findings have revealed that this package contains malicious code, posing significant security risks to applications that utilize it.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability stems from the inclusion of malicious code within the async-swc-plugin package. This code can potentially compromise the security of applications, leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, or other malicious activities. The issue is particularly concerning as it affects all versions of the package starting from its introduction, making it imperative for users to take immediate action to mitigate risks.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
npm uninstall async-swc-pluginIf it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, consider removing the async-swc-plugin from your project until a secure version is released. You can do this by running the command: 'npm uninstall async-swc-plugin'. This will help prevent any potential exploitation of the malicious code.
Conclusion
The discovery of malicious code in the async-swc-plugin package highlights the importance of vigilance in software security. Users are urged to take immediate action by updating or removing the package to safeguard their applications from potential threats.
See every vulnerability recorded for async-swc-plugin →
FAQ
The async-swc-plugin is an npm package that integrates with the SWC compiler to optimize JavaScript applications.
The malicious code was identified by security researchers from Amazon Inspector, who reported it to the community.
The risks include unauthorized access to sensitive data, potential data breaches, and other malicious activities that could compromise application integrity.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities using just your package-lock.json file. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected.
Yes, you can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check for vulnerabilities without requiring any signup.
