Definition ∞ A Postinstall Script is a command or set of commands executed automatically after a software package has been installed. In the context of npm, these scripts are specified in a package’s package.json file and run following the npm install command. They are typically used for setup tasks, compilation, or dependency resolution. However, they can also be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on a user’s system.
Context ∞ The security implications of Postinstall Scripts are a frequent topic in cybersecurity discussions related to open-source software and digital asset development. Reports often detail how these scripts can be weaponized in supply chain attacks, where compromised packages execute harmful code upon installation. Developers are advised to exercise extreme caution and verify the integrity of packages, especially those from untrusted sources, to mitigate this risk.