# MAL-2026-16418: Malicious code in n8n-nodes-data-transformer-utils (npm)


- **Type:** Malicious package
- **Package:** `n8n-nodes-data-transformer-utils` (npm)
- **Published:** 22 Sep 2026

## What is MAL-2026-16418?

MAL-2026-16418 is a malicious package in n8n-nodes-data-transformer-utils, published on 22 Sep 2026. 

### Official description

The package's postinstall.js runs automatically on npm install and combines child_process.execSync with http/https.request and multiple curl invocations to collect host information (including reads of /etc/hosts) and POST/GET the results to a remote endpoint. The file uses a hardcoded hostname target, executes shell commands to gather system data, and transmits it over HTTP without any relation to the package's advertised data-transformation purpose. The package name mimics the n8n community-node naming convention, providing a lure for users seeking legitimate n8n utilities. Installing the package on default settings triggers immediate host reconnaissance and outbound exfiltration to an attacker-controlled destination.

## What should I do about MAL-2026-16418?

Remove the package from your dependencies and lockfiles, then rotate any secrets on machines where it was installed.

## Fix prompt for AI coding agents

```text
MAL-2026-16418 is a malicious package: n8n-nodes-data-transformer-utils (npm). Every version was published to cause harm.

Task:
1. Search this repository's dependency manifests and lockfiles for the package, including transitive dependencies.
2. If it is present, remove it, regenerate the lockfile with the project's package manager, and replace whatever it was used for.
3. List any CI runners, developer machines or containers that installed it, so their secrets can be rotated.
4. If the package is not used anywhere, say so and change nothing.

Reference: https://insights.sbomify.com/MAL-2026-16418/ (Markdown: https://insights.sbomify.com/MAL-2026-16418/index.md)
```

## Sources

- OSV: https://osv.dev/vulnerability/MAL-2026-16418

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From sbomify Insights: https://insights.sbomify.com/MAL-2026-16418/
Summaries are generated and may contain mistakes; the official description above is the record.