T08 · Insecure Dependencies
Warning
- Location
- SKILL.md:12
- Finding
- Unpinned Third-Party Executable Dependencies## Vulnerability Details **File Location**: `SKILL.md`, line 12 **Vulnerability Type**: Insecure third-party dependency installation **Risk Level**: Medium **Vulnerable Code**: ```bash npm install @kynesyslabs/demosdk@^2.11.0 tsx ``` ### Technical Analysis The installation instruction does not provide reproducible dependency resolution. The caret constraint on `@kynesyslabs/demosdk@^2.11.0` permits npm to install later compatible releases, while `tsx` has no version constraint at all. The project also provides no lockfile, package integrity values, vendored source, or other mechanism for ensuring that users execute the same dependencies that were reviewed. npm packages can run lifecycle scripts during installation and execute application code later when imported. Consequently, a compromised package release, malicious transitive dependency, or unexpectedly changed future version could execute code with the privileges of the user following the Quick Start instructions. ### Attack Path 1. An attacker compromises the npm account, publication process, repository, or transitive dependency of an allowed package. 2. The attacker publishes a malicious version that satisfies `^2.11.0`, or compromises a version selected through the unconstrained `tsx` dependency. 3. A user follows the documented Quick Start command. 4. npm resolves and downloads the altered dependency because no reviewed lockfile or exact version prevents the selection. 5. Attacker-controlled code executes through an npm lifecycle hook or when the dependency is imported and used. 6. The code operates with the installing user's permissions and can access data available to that process. ### Impact Assessment Successful exploitation could provide arbitrary code execution under the local user's account. The exposed scope may include project files, environment variables, network credentials, and the wallet mnemonic created or used by the documented workflow. Compr ...[truncated 370 chars]
- Remediation
- ## Remediation Suggestions - Pin every direct dependency to an exact, reviewed version rather than using caret ranges or unconstrained package names. - Add and review a package manifest and lockfile, then instruct users to perform reproducible installation with `npm ci`. - Commit lockfile integrity metadata and review all transitive dependencies before release. - Use `npm ci --ignore-scripts` where package functionality permits it; otherwise, audit every required lifecycle script. - Verify package provenance, registry ownership, signatures, and integrity before installation. - Run dependency code in a least-privilege environment without unrelated secrets or wallet mnemonics. - Keep wallet material outside the project and process environment where possible, and document secure mnemonic storage. - Establish automated dependency scanning and a controlled process for reviewing and adopting dependency updates.