MalwarePublished 22 Oct 2026Updated 29 Oct 2026

darknode-cli (npm) · Malicious Code

Affects darknode-cliSource GCVE Database

Malicious package : remove darknode-cli and rotate any secrets on hosts that installed it.

Data as of 29 Oct 2026, 18:23 UTC

Classification

Malicious package

Published to npm · OSV MAL-2026-18195

What to do

Remove darknode-cli 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
npmdarknode-cli	Affected =2.46.2 =2.46.1 =2.46.0	Fixed in–

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Description

The darknode-cli npm package versions 2.46.0, 2.46.1, and 2.46.2 contain malicious code that functions as an offensive-security and penetration testing toolkit. While the package does not automatically execute upon installation or exfiltrate installer-side data, it exposes local HTTP control surfaces and includes modules that catalog offensive tools and sensitive file indicators. The package's capabilities are directed at operator-chosen external targets. According to one source, any system with this package installed or running should be considered fully compromised, and all stored secrets and keys should be rotated immediately.

Impact

Installation or execution of the darknode-cli package versions 2.46.0 to 2.46.2 may lead to full system compromise, as the package provides offensive capabilities that can be directed at external targets and exposes local control surfaces. The presence of this package on a system implies that all secrets and keys stored on that system are at risk and should be rotated immediately. Removal of the package alone may not guarantee elimination of all malicious software introduced.

Defensive guidance

Remove the darknode-cli package immediately from affected systems. Rotate all secrets and keys stored on the compromised system from a separate, secure computer. Since the package does not auto-execute on install, avoid running it.

Summary

The darknode-cli npm package versions 2.46.0 through 2.46.2 include modules that provide offensive security and penetration testing functionalities, cataloging tools such as nmap, nikto, and sqlmap, and sensitive file extensions. It exposes local HTTP control surfaces for CLI consumption but does not auto-execute on install or exfiltrate installer secrets. Despite this, a security source classifies the package as malware, warning that any computer with it installed or running is fully compromised, recommending immediate secret rotation and removal of the package. No public exploits or CVSS scores are available, and no cloud service is involved.

References

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What to do

Affected software

Description

AI analysisMachine-generated, updated 29 Oct 2026, 18:23 UTC

Technical details

References

Community reviews