MalwarePublished 11 Nov 2026

pathbits (npm) · Malicious Code

Affects pathbitsSource GCVE Database

Malicious package : remove pathbits and rotate any secrets on hosts that installed it.

Data as of 11 Nov 2026, 17:47 UTC

Classification

Malicious package

Published to npm · OSV MAL-2026-19137

What to do

Remove pathbits 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
npmpathbits	Affected–	Fixed in–

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Description

The npm package 'pathbits' contains malicious code that compromises any computer on which it is installed or running. Installation of this package may lead to full system compromise, including unauthorized access to secrets and keys. Immediate removal of the package is recommended, but complete remediation may require rotating all secrets and keys from a separate, uncompromised system due to potential persistent control by attackers.

Impact

Full system compromise on any computer with the 'pathbits' package installed or running. All secrets and keys stored on the compromised system are at risk and should be considered exposed. Removal of the package alone may not eliminate the threat due to possible persistent malicious software installed by the attacker.

Defensive guidance

Remove the 'pathbits' package immediately from all affected systems. Rotate all secrets and keys stored on compromised machines using a separate, secure computer. Conduct a thorough investigation and remediation to ensure no persistent malicious software remains, as removal of the package alone may not fully restore system integrity.

Summary

The 'pathbits' npm package has been identified as containing malicious code that, when installed or executed, can fully compromise the host computer. This compromise includes potential unauthorized access to sensitive data such as secrets and keys. The advisory strongly recommends removing the package and rotating all credentials from a different machine, as the attacker may maintain persistent control beyond the presence of the package itself.

References

github.com/advisories/GHSA-q9jm-97m9-6pw6 (opens in a new tab)

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What to do

Affected software

Description

AI analysisMachine-generated, updated 11 Nov 2026, 17:47 UTC

Technical details

References

Community reviews