Malicious Code Detected in jw-sha3 Package - Security Alert

jw-sha3 Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

14/08/2025
CRITICAL
No i
Critical
Not published

MAL-2025-24128: Malicious code in jw-sha3 (npm). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The jw-sha3 package is a JavaScript implementation of the SHA-3 hashing algorithm, widely used in cryptographic applications. It provides developers with a reliable way to generate secure hashes for data integrity and authentication. However, recent findings have revealed that this package contains malicious code, posing significant security risks to applications that utilize it.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in the jw-sha3 package stems from the inclusion of malicious code that can compromise the security of applications using this package. This malicious code can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential exploitation of the affected systems. The issue was introduced in version 0 and affects all subsequent versions, making it critical for users to take immediate action to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.

How To Fix

This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.

npm uninstall jw-sha3

If 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 jw-sha3 package altogether and consider using alternative libraries that provide similar functionality without the associated risks. For example, you can use the 'crypto' module built into Node.js for hashing needs.

Conclusion

The discovery of malicious code in the jw-sha3 package highlights the importance of maintaining secure coding practices and regularly auditing dependencies. Users are strongly advised to remove the affected package and consider alternatives to safeguard their applications against potential threats.

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FAQ

The jw-sha3 package is a JavaScript library that implements the SHA-3 hashing algorithm, commonly used for secure data hashing.

The malicious code was identified through security audits and reports from tools like Amazon Inspector, which flagged the package for containing harmful code.

Using the compromised jw-sha3 package can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and exploitation of your application, putting sensitive information at risk.

You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. By analyzing your package-lock.json file, Vulert can help you determine if your application is affected.

Yes, Vulert allows you to check for vulnerabilities using just your package-lock.json file, providing a hassle-free way to stay informed about potential security issues.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for jw-sha3.

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How To Fix

This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.

npm uninstall jw-sha3

If 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 →

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