# MAL-2026-5445: Malicious code in grateful-payments (npm)


- **Type:** Malicious package
- **Package:** `grateful-payments` (npm)
- **Published:** 9 Jun 2026

## What is MAL-2026-5445?

MAL-2026-5445 is a malicious package in grateful-payments, published on 9 Jun 2026. 

### Official description

On `npm install`, the package's postinstall script (src/canary.js) performs a DNS lookup and HTTPS GET to the hardcoded host `96e03fa6c292469a-172-245-86-254.serveousercontent.com` at path `/c`. serveousercontent.com is an anonymous reverse-tunnel service, so the destination is operator-controlled and not tied to a verifiable publisher. Every installer's machine emits an unconsented outbound network call at install time, revealing source IP, DNS resolver path, and install timing to the tunnel operator — a classic install-fleet beaconing pattern used to confirm compromise reach. The package's own metadata describes itself as a HackerOne research canary with an empty main module, but the install-time network behavior is identical to a real install-time beacon and runs on anyone who installs this version.

## What should I do about MAL-2026-5445?

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-2026-5445 is a malicious package: grateful-payments (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-2026-5445/ (Markdown: https://insights.sbomify.com/MAL-2026-5445/index.md)
```

## Sources

- OSV: https://osv.dev/vulnerability/MAL-2026-5445

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From sbomify Insights: https://insights.sbomify.com/MAL-2026-5445/
Summaries are generated and may contain mistakes; the official description above is the record.