Malicious Python Packages: A Comedy of Errors in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity researchers have discovered two malicious packages on PyPI: zebo and cometlogger. These sneaky snakes managed to slither into 282 downloads, mainly from the US, China, Russia, and India. They excel at swiping sensitive information, proving once again that not all Python packages are as harmless as they sound!
Hot Take:
So, PyPI’s latest surprise packages aren’t exactly the stocking stuffers you’d hope for this holiday season. Unless, of course, you enjoy gifts that keep on taking—like your passwords, cookies, and maybe even your soul. With names like “zebo” and “cometlogger,” these packages sound more like intergalactic bounty hunters than digital pickpockets. But, as it turns out, their mission isn’t to save the galaxy; it’s to swipe your sensitive information faster than you can say ‘python install’.
Key Points:
- Two malicious packages named “zebo” and “cometlogger” were found on the PyPI repository.
- The packages were downloaded hundreds of times before removal, mostly from the US, China, Russia, and India.
- Zebo uses obfuscation techniques and captures keystrokes and screenshots.
- Cometlogger targets a wide range of sensitive data, including app credentials and system metadata.
- Researchers advise scrutinizing code and avoiding unverified scripts to prevent such threats.