Malicious code in tplibvirtualstring (PyPI)

tplibvirtualstring Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

25/02/2023
CRITICAL
No i
Critical
Not published

MAL-2023-7219: Malicious code in tplibvirtualstring (PyPI). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The tplibvirtualstring package is an open-source Python package available on PyPI. It is used for virtual string manipulation in Python applications. This package provides various functions and utilities for working with virtual strings. Unfortunately, this package has been found to contain malicious code.

Vulnerability Detail

The tplibvirtualstring package has been compromised by the EsqueleSquad group, who published nearly 6000 malicious PyPi and NPM packages. These packages execute spyware and information-stealing malware. The specific vulnerability in tplibvirtualstring allows the execution of arbitrary code on the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or other malicious activities.

How To Fix

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

pip uninstall tplibvirtualstring

If it arrived as a transitive dependency, remove the package that pulled it in, then reinstall.

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Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is crucial to remove the malicious package and replace it with a safe version or an alternative package.

Conclusion

The tplibvirtualstring package on PyPI has been found to contain malicious code, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data theft. It is crucial to remove this package from your Python environment and replace it with a trusted alternative. Regularly updating packages and employing security tools like Vulert can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.

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FAQ

You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability. Simply provide your Pipfile.lock file, and Vulert will analyze it for any open-source vulnerabilities, including this one.

Yes, once a safe version of tplibvirtualstring is available, you can update your package to the latest version and continue using it without the risk of the malicious code.

Yes, there are several alternative packages available for virtual string manipulation in Python. Some popular options include virtualstring, pyvirtualstring, and vstringutils. Make sure to choose a package with a good reputation and regularly updated.

If you suspect that your system has been compromised due to the malicious tplibvirtualstring package, it is recommended to disconnect from the network, perform a thorough system scan using trusted antivirus software, and seek assistance from a cybersecurity professional.

To prevent similar vulnerabilities, it is essential to regularly update your packages to the latest versions, use reputable sources for package installation, and employ security tools like Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software.

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How To Fix

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

pip uninstall tplibvirtualstring

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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