Malicious code in virtualinfo (PyPI)
Summary
MAL-2023-7825: Malicious code in virtualinfo (PyPI). 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 virtualinfo package is an open-source Python package available on PyPI. It is designed to provide information about virtual environments in Python. This package is commonly used by developers to gather details about their Python environment, such as the version of Python, installed packages, and system information. Unfortunately, this package has been found to contain malicious code.
Vulnerability Detail
The virtualinfo 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 virtualinfo allows the execution of malicious code, which can lead to unauthorized access, data theft, and potential compromise of the entire system. The malicious code can be triggered when the package is installed or used in a Python project.
How To Fix
This package is malicious. Remove it and rotate any credentials it could have accessed.
pip uninstall virtualinfoIf 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
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to remove the virtualinfo package and follow the recommended steps to fix the issue.
Conclusion
The virtualinfo 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 follow the recommended steps to mitigate the impact of the vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for virtualinfo →
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 the malicious code in virtualinfo.
Yes, you can continue using other packages from PyPI. However, it is crucial to ensure that you only install trusted and verified packages from reputable sources. Regularly update your packages and keep an eye on security advisories to stay informed about any potential vulnerabilities.
The potential risks of this vulnerability include unauthorized access to sensitive information, data theft, and compromise of the entire system. The malicious code in virtualinfo can execute spyware and information-stealing malware, leading to severe consequences for individuals and organizations.
To remove the virtualinfo package, you can use the following command:
pip uninstall virtualinfo
If you suspect your system has been compromised, it is crucial to take immediate action. Disconnect from the network, scan your system with updated security software, and consult with a cybersecurity professional to assess the extent of the compromise and implement appropriate remediation measures.
