# MAL-2026-5691: Malicious code in ecto-spirit-win-k4n8 (npm)


- **Type:** Malicious package
- **Package:** `ecto-spirit-win-k4n8` (npm)
- **Published:** 12 Jun 2026
- **Also known as:** GHSA-h2hh-hg37-42gq

## What is MAL-2026-5691?

MAL-2026-5691 is a malicious package in ecto-spirit-win-k4n8, published on 12 Jun 2026. 

### Official description

The package ships a postinstall.js that imports child_process and references HTTP GET and hostname operations. Without traced-code corroboration of how these primitives are composed (e.g., whether GET fetches attacker-controlled content that is then executed, or whether hostname is exfiltrated to a remote endpoint), the pattern is consistent with both benign install diagnostics and an exfil/dropper shape. Manual review of postinstall.js is needed to confirm intent before publishing a verdict.

Any computer that has this package installed or running should be considered fully compromised. All secrets and keys stored on that computer should be rotated immediately from a different computer. The package should be removed, but as full control of the computer may have been given to an outside entity, there is no guarantee that removing the package will remove all malicious software resulting from installing it.

## What should I do about MAL-2026-5691?

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-2026-5691 is a malicious package: ecto-spirit-win-k4n8 (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-2026-5691/ (Markdown: https://insights.sbomify.com/MAL-2026-5691/index.md)
```

## Sources

- OSV: https://osv.dev/vulnerability/MAL-2026-5691

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From sbomify Insights: https://insights.sbomify.com/MAL-2026-5691/
Summaries are generated and may contain mistakes; the official description above is the record.