OpenClaw versions prior to 2026.2.22 fail to sanitize shell startup environment variables HOME and ZDOTDIR in the system.run function, allowing attackers to bypass command allowlist protections. Remote attackers can inject malicious startup files such as .bash_profile or .zshenv to achieve arbitrary code execution before allowlist-evaluated commands are executed.
Attack Parameters
Attack Vector
Network
Can be exploited remotely
Attack Complexity
High
Difficult to exploit
Attack Requirements
None
No additional conditions
Privileges Required
Low
Basic privileges needed
User Interaction
None
No user interaction needed
Impact Assessment
Confidentiality
High
Complete data leak
Integrity
High
Complete data modification
Availability
High
Complete denial of service
CVSS Vector v4.0
Weakness Type (CWE)
Vulnerable Products 1
| Configuration | From (including) | Up to (excluding) |
|---|---|---|
|
Openclaw Openclaw
cpe:2.3:a:openclaw:openclaw:*:*:*:*:*:node.js:*:*
|
— |
2026.2.22
|
References 3
https://github.com/openclaw/openclaw/commit/c2c7114ed39a547ab6276e1e933029b9530…
disclosure@vulncheck.com
https://github.com/openclaw/openclaw/security/advisories/GHSA-xgf2-vxv2-rrmg
disclosure@vulncheck.com
https://www.vulncheck.com/advisories/openclaw-remote-code-execution-via-shell-s…
disclosure@vulncheck.com