OpenClaw before version 2026.4.2 contains an approval integrity vulnerability in pnpm dlx. This vulnerability allows attackers to replace approved local scripts before execution without invalidating the approval plan. The consequence is the execution of modified script contents, which poses significant risks to systems utilizing this component.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 5.4, classifying it as medium severity. This level of severity indicates that organizations need to address it in their priority patch cycle. The risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized execution of scripts, which can lead to further compromises.
As of now, there are no public exploits confirmed for this vulnerability, and it is not included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. However, given the nature of the vulnerability, organizations should remain vigilant.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately, especially those that utilize OpenClaw in their systems, to mitigate potential risks associated with this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability in OpenClaw stems from an issue in the pnpm dlx command, where local script operands are not consistently bound with pnpm exec flows. This inconsistency allows attackers to manipulate the execution flow by replacing scripts without triggering any security checks.
The vulnerability is classified as CWE-367, indicating a race condition that can be exploited by adversaries. The attack vector is local, requiring low privileges, thus making it more accessible for potential attackers.
The publication date of this vulnerability was April 23, 2026, and it affects all versions prior to 2026.4.2.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of the vulnerability lies in how OpenClaw handles script approvals within the pnpm dlx command. The failure to properly bind local script operands can result in attackers being able to execute unauthorized scripts that they have replaced.
The attack vector is local, which requires that the attacker has access to the environment where the command is being executed. The attack complexity is considered high due to the requirement for specific conditions to be met before exploitation can occur.
The vulnerability requires low privileges to exploit, meaning that even users with limited access can potentially trigger the execution of malicious scripts. User interaction is passive, as the execution can occur without the user's consent or knowledge.
The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, as successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data and modification of application behavior.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk for this vulnerability is significant. Organizations using OpenClaw should assess their environments for potential exposure to this vulnerability. Attackers may leverage this issue to replace legitimate scripts with malicious ones, leading to unauthorized access and data breaches.
The blast radius potential is high, especially in environments where OpenClaw is integrated into critical workflows or applications. The urgency for organizations to address this vulnerability is underscored by its medium CVSS score, indicating that while it may not be an immediate threat, it is one that should not be ignored.
Given that the vulnerability is not actively exploited according to the KEV database, organizations still need to maintain vigilance. Regular security assessments and patching should be part of an ongoing security strategy.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
This vulnerability affects all versions of OpenClaw prior to 2026.4.2. Organizations should ensure they upgrade to this version or later to mitigate the risk.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should address this vulnerability by upgrading to OpenClaw version 2026.4.2 or later. In the absence of a patch, it is advisable to review and restrict script approval processes to mitigate the risk of unauthorized script execution.
Additionally, organizations can utilize penetration testing to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor for unusual script executions and changes to approved scripts. Logging and alerting mechanisms should be established to flag any unauthorized modifications.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The OpenClaw vulnerability represents a concerning trend in software integrity management. As organizations increasingly rely on automation and script execution, the potential for exploitation through integrity bypasses grows. Security teams should focus on implementing robust script approval processes and continuous monitoring to detect such vulnerabilities early.
For additional insights on improving application security, organizations can refer to our guide on penetration testing methodology and the importance of a vulnerability management program to address security risks proactively.
Security teams should also stay informed about evolving threats and integrate learnings from incidents into their security strategies.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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