Artifact scanner detects npm package 'node-fetch-utils' using external dependency resolution with remote tarball dependency from GitHub
Essential information
- Published
- 23/06/2026 14:11
- Modified
- —
- Source / Author
- AlienVault
- Confidence
- 100/100
- Report type(s)
- threat-report
- Labels / Tags
- dependency confusion fileless malware javascript dropper node-fetch-core node-fetch-utils npm obfuscated script persistence python implant supply chain attack
- Related entities
- 2 indicators, 1 observables, 13 techniques (mitre), 2 malware
Description
A malicious npm package named 'node-fetch-utils' was discovered masquerading as a legitimate fetch helper utility. The package declares a remote tarball dependency from GitHub that executes upon installation. It runs an obfuscated postinstall script targeting Windows systems, which downloads a bundled Python runtime and drops it as Microsoft\EdgeBroker\pythonw.exe for persistence. The dropper then uses this disguised runtime to execute a fileless Python implant decrypted in memory and launched hidden via wscript. The dropper scripts self-delete while the disguised runtime remains active on the compromised system, establishing command and control communications.