MalwarePublished 5 Aug 2026

@nextco/utils (npm) · Malicious Code

Affects @nextco/utilsSource GCVE Database

Malicious package : remove @nextco/utils and rotate any secrets on hosts that installed it.

Data as of 5 Aug 2026, 17:11 UTC

Classification

Malicious package

Published to npm · OSV MAL-2026-12325

What to do

Remove @nextco/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
npm@nextco/utils	Affected =5.0.0	Fixed in–

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Description

The @nextco/utils npm package version 5.0.0 contains malicious code that executes upon module load. It collects host reconnaissance data including hostname, username, directory paths, OS/architecture, Node.js version, and environment variable names. This data is base64-encoded and sent via an unencrypted HTTP POST request to a hardcoded attacker-controlled server (attacker.cl). The package does not provide an opt-out for this telemetry, exposing sensitive host information to attackers.

Impact

This malicious code compromises host confidentiality by exfiltrating sensitive environment information to an attacker-controlled server. The collected data can facilitate further targeted attacks, including credential theft and system compromise. Because the data is sent unencrypted, it also risks interception. The compromise occurs simply by loading the module, making any dependent project vulnerable.

Defensive guidance

Users should immediately avoid using @nextco/utils version 5.0.0 and remove it from their projects. Verify dependencies for this package and replace or remove it. Monitor for updates or advisories from the package publisher or npm registry for official fixes or guidance. Until then, do not load or require this package version.

Summary

The @nextco/utils package version 5.0.0 includes a malicious payload that triggers immediately when the module is required. The payload gathers detailed host environment information such as hostname, username, current working directory, OS and architecture details, Node.js version, and environment variable names. This information is encoded and transmitted over plain HTTP to a domain unrelated to the package publisher, enabling attackers to gain reconnaissance data useful for subsequent targeted attacks like credential theft. The malicious behavior occurs without user consent or opt-out mechanisms.

References

npmjs.com/package/@nextco/utils/v/5.0.0 (opens in a new tab)

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What to do

Affected software

Description

AI analysisMachine-generated, updated 5 Aug 2026, 17:11 UTC

Technical details

References

Community reviews