Malicious code in virtualhttp (PyPI)

virtualhttp Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

24/02/2023
CRITICAL
No i
Critical
Not published

MAL-2023-7823: Malicious code in virtualhttp (PyPI). Affected versions are not published. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

The virtualhttp package is an open-source Python package available on PyPI. It provides functionality for virtualizing HTTP requests and responses, allowing developers to simulate HTTP interactions in their applications. This package is widely used in various Python projects.

Vulnerability Detail

A malicious code injection vulnerability has been discovered in the virtualhttp package. The vulnerability originates from a malicious PyPi package published by the EsqueleSquad group. This package contains spyware and information-stealing malware. The malicious code can be executed when the virtualhttp package is installed or updated, potentially compromising the security and privacy of the affected systems. The vulnerability has been identified and reported by Checkmarx.

How To Fix

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

pip uninstall virtualhttp

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

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Workaround

There is no specific workaround provided for this vulnerability. However, as a general security measure, it is recommended to regularly update and patch all software components, including packages and dependencies, to minimize the risk of potential vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

The virtualhttp package has been found to contain malicious code injected by the EsqueleSquad group. This vulnerability can lead to the execution of spyware and information-stealing malware. It is crucial to remove the virtualhttp package from the affected systems and take necessary precautions to ensure the security of the overall software ecosystem. 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 specific virtualhttp vulnerability.

No, there is no fix available for the virtualhttp package itself. The recommended approach is to remove the package from the affected systems and ensure they are free from any other malicious packages published by the EsqueleSquad group.

It is highly discouraged to use the virtualhttp package, even with precautions. The presence of malicious code in the package poses significant security risks. It is best to find alternative packages or solutions for simulating HTTP interactions in your applications.

The potential ramifications of this vulnerability include unauthorized access to sensitive information, data theft, and compromise of system security. The malicious code injected by the EsqueleSquad group can execute spyware and steal valuable data from the affected systems.

To ensure the security of your Python packages, it is recommended to follow best practices for package management. Regularly update and patch all software components, including packages and dependencies. Use reputable package repositories, scan for vulnerabilities using security tools, and stay informed about any reported vulnerabilities in the packages you use.

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How To Fix

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

pip uninstall virtualhttp

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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