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npm 12 Disables Install Scripts by Default to Reduce Supply Chain Risk – July 2026

Author/Source: Ravie Lakshmanan See the full link here

Takeaway

GitHub has released npm version 12, which now turns off install scripts by default and changes how certain access tokens work to make software development safer. These updates aim to prevent attackers from secretly adding harmful code during software installation. Users will now have to manually approve scripts and changes to Git and remote dependencies.

Technical Subject Understandability

Intermediate

Analogy/Comparison

This update is like a security guard at a building who now makes everyone show their ID and state their business before entering, instead of letting everyone walk straight in.

Why It Matters

These changes help protect software from hidden dangers that could be slipped in by attackers, which is important because malicious code in popular software can affect many users and companies. For example, by disabling install scripts by default, it becomes harder for attackers to compromise software packages and inject harmful code into development projects.

Related Terms

Supply Chain Security, DevSecOps, Granular Access Tokens (GATs), Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), OIDC (OpenID Connect), Trusted Publishing

Jargon Conversion

Supply Chain Security: Protecting all the steps involved in making and delivering software. DevSecOps: Combining software development, security, and operations to build secure software faster. Granular Access Tokens (GATs): Special keys that give specific permissions to do certain tasks. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): An extra security step, like needing a password and a code from your phone. OIDC (OpenID Connect): A standard way for identities to be verified online. Trusted Publishing: A secure method for releasing software packages, often involving extra checks.

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