A recent report by Checkmarx has sounded the alarm on a critical vulnerability in open-source application packages, including those in Python and JavaScript, that could allow threat actors to execute malicious code, steal data, and plant malware. The vulnerability lies in the entry points of these packages, which can be manipulated by attackers to impersonate popular third-party tools and system commands, dubbed "command jacking" by researchers.

This stealthy approach enables attackers to compromise systems, potentially evading standard security measures. The report warns that developers who frequently use these tools in their workflows are particularly at risk. For instance, a malicious package impersonating the 'aws' command could exfiltrate AWS access keys and secrets, while a fake 'docker' command could secretly send images or container specifications to the attacker's server during builds or deployments.

The vulnerability exists in several major languages and package managers, including npm, Ruby Gems, NuGet, Dart Pub, and Rust Crates. To mitigate the risks, developers are advised to verify the source and integrity of packages before installation, implement strict code review processes, and utilize automated security tools that can detect suspicious entry point usage.