OpenClaw (npm package 'openclaw') versions >= 2026.3.22 and < 2026.8.1 contain an approval-bypass…

Why it is Yellow

• CVSS 8.0 high

References

• https://github.com/openclaw/openclaw/security/advisories/GHSA-ghpx-6xwq-2w4w
• https://www.vulncheck.com/advisories/openclaw-before-2026.8.1-authentication-bypass-via-exec-wrapper

Original description

OpenClaw (npm package 'openclaw') versions >= 2026.3.22 and < 2026.8.1 contain an approval-bypass flaw in the exec approval policy: the policy could trust a command-running wrapper without inspecting the command carried in its arguments. After an operator allowlisted or permanently approved a benign wrapper invocation, a later agent turn could substitute an arbitrary inner command and execute it with the OpenClaw process's host privileges without a further approval prompt. Exploitation requires the relevant wrapper to resolve on the host and a prior operator decision allowing that wrapper. Transparent shell carriers and opaque utilities such as process monitors, tracers, namespace tools, and proxy wrappers were affected through related trust-resolution gaps. Fixed in 2026.8.1.