MalwarePublished 14 Jul 2026

cbr-internal-utils (npm) · Malicious Code

Affects cbr-internal-utilsSource GCVE Database

Malicious package : remove cbr-internal-utils and rotate any secrets on hosts that installed it.

Data as of 14 Jul 2026, 09:32 UTC

Classification

Malicious package

Published to npm · OSV MAL-2026-10530

What to do

Remove cbr-internal-utils from every project, lockfile and image that pulls it in. Treat any host that installed it as compromised: rotate the credentials, tokens and keys it could read, from a clean machine.

Affected software

Product	Affected	Fixed in
npmcbr-internal-utils	Affected =2.2.2	Fixed in–

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Description

The npm package 'cbr-internal-utils' version 2.2.2 contains malicious code that executes a shell command to read the /etc/passwd file on the host system whenever the package is required. This behavior occurs unconditionally without any user action or configuration. The package's metadata is minimal and suspicious, indicating it may be a dependency-confusion or reconnaissance payload rather than a legitimate library.

Impact

The malicious code exposes local user account information by reading and printing the /etc/passwd file on the host system. This can aid attackers in reconnaissance activities, potentially facilitating further attacks or privilege escalation. There is no indication of additional payloads or direct exploitation beyond information disclosure. No known exploits in the wild have been reported.

Defensive guidance

Users should avoid using 'cbr-internal-utils' version 2.2.2 and remove it from their dependencies if present. Verify the integrity and provenance of npm packages before installation to prevent dependency confusion or supply chain attacks. Monitor for updates or advisories from the package maintainers or npm registry regarding this package.

Summary

The 'cbr-internal-utils' npm package at version 2.2.2 includes malicious code that, upon loading, uses child_process.exec to run 'cat /etc/passwd' and outputs the contents to stdout. This occurs automatically when any consumer requires the package, with no user interaction needed. The package's internal-sounding name and empty author and description fields suggest it is designed for reconnaissance or dependency confusion attacks rather than legitimate use. The reading of /etc/passwd serves no functional purpose for a library and exposes local user account information on the host.

References

npmjs.com/package/cbr-internal-utils/v/2.2.2 (opens in a new tab)

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What to do

Affected software

Description

AI analysisMachine-generated, updated 14 Jul 2026, 09:32 UTC

Technical details

References

Community reviews