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Malicious code in mcp-audit-sync-internal (npm)

0
Critical
Published: 08/05/2026 (08/05/2026, 12:33:32 UTC)
Source: GCVE Database
Product: mcp-audit-sync-internal

Description

The npm package mcp-audit-sync-internal version 99.9.9 contains malicious code that executes automatically during installation on Windows systems. It runs a hidden PowerShell process that downloads and executes an unverified executable from an anonymous file host. This behavior enables arbitrary code execution on the host machine without user awareness. The package metadata attempts to disguise this activity with misleading descriptions and filenames.

Affected software

npmghsa
mcp-audit-sync-internal
Affected versions
=99.9.9

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AI-Powered Analysis

Machine-generated threat intelligence

AILast updated: 08/05/2026, 17:38:25 UTC

Technical Analysis

The mcp-audit-sync-internal npm package at version 99.9.9 declares a preinstall script that runs 'node index.js'. On Windows, this script spawns a hidden PowerShell process which downloads a ZIP archive from an unrelated anonymous file hosting service (https://files.catbox.moe/5khq55.zip). The ZIP is extracted into the temporary directory, and an executable named Verification_Tool.exe inside it is launched. The remote artifact is neither pinned nor verified by hash or signature, and the entire fetch-and-execute process is hidden from the user via PowerShell's -WindowStyle Hidden option. This results in automatic arbitrary code execution on any Windows system that installs this package. The package's metadata and executable filename are deceptive, serving as cover stories inconsistent with the actual malicious behavior.

Potential Impact

This malicious package enables arbitrary code execution on Windows hosts during npm install, potentially allowing attackers to run any code with the privileges of the installing user. The unverified and anonymous nature of the downloaded payload increases the risk of executing unknown and potentially harmful software. This compromises system integrity and security without user consent or awareness.

Mitigation Recommendations

No official patch or remediation is currently available for this malicious package version. Users should avoid installing mcp-audit-sync-internal version 99.9.9. It is recommended to verify package authenticity before installation, avoid packages from untrusted sources, and monitor for suspicious preinstall scripts. Since this is a malicious package, removal and replacement with trusted alternatives is advised.

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Technical Details

Gcve Source
db.gcve.eu
Osv Id
MAL-2026-12401
Osv Schema Version
1.7.4
Ecosystems
["npm"]

Threat ID: 6a735747bf8831d53915a0be

Added to database: 08/05/2026, 15:31:19 UTC

Last enriched: 08/05/2026, 17:38:25 UTC

Last updated: 09/16/2026, 05:25:07 UTC

Views: 17

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