OpenClaw before 2026.3.22 performs cite expansion before completing channel and DM authorization checks, allowing cite work and content handling prior to final auth decisions. Attackers can exploit this timing vulnerability to access or manipulate content before proper authorization validation occurs.
Attack Parameters
Attack Vector
Network
Can be exploited remotely
Attack Complexity
Low
Easy to exploit
Attack Requirements
None
No additional conditions
Privileges Required
None
No privileges needed
User Interaction
None
No user interaction needed
Impact Assessment
Confidentiality
Low
Partial data leak
Integrity
Low
Partial data modification
Availability
Low
Partial disruption
CVSS Vector v4.0
Weakness Type (CWE)
References 5
https://github.com/openclaw/openclaw/commit/3cbf932413e41d1836cb91aed1541a28a31…
disclosure@vulncheck.com
https://github.com/openclaw/openclaw/commit/630f1479c44f78484dfa21bb407cbe6f171…
disclosure@vulncheck.com
https://github.com/openclaw/openclaw/commit/ebee4e2210e1f282a982c7ef2ad79d77a57…
disclosure@vulncheck.com
https://github.com/openclaw/openclaw/security/advisories/GHSA-vfg3-pqpq-93m4
disclosure@vulncheck.com
https://www.vulncheck.com/advisories/openclaw-premature-cite-expansion-before-a…
disclosure@vulncheck.com