CVE-2026-28363: OpenClaw Vulnerable to Validation Bypass via GNU Long-Option Abbreviations
Summary
CVE-2026-28363: OpenClaw is vulnerable to validation bypass through GNU long-option abbreviations in allowlist mode. Affects openclaw versions < 2026.2.23. Fixed in 2026.2.23. How to fix ↓
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Background
OpenClaw is an open-source tool designed for executing commands safely within a controlled environment. It is primarily used in Node.js applications to ensure that only approved commands are executed, thereby enhancing security. The package employs an allowlist mode to validate commands, ensuring that only specified options are permitted. However, a recent vulnerability has been identified that allows for a bypass of this validation mechanism.
Vulnerability Detail
In OpenClaw versions prior to 2026.2.23, the validation process for the 'sort' command could be circumvented by using GNU long-option abbreviations, such as '--compress-prog'. This flaw allows users to execute commands that should have required explicit approval, leading to potential unauthorized command execution. The vulnerability stems from the package's failure to recognize these abbreviations as valid inputs, which could result in significant security risks, including unauthorized access to system resources and execution of malicious commands.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 2026.10.6 as of 22 Oct 2026
npm install openclaw@2026.10.6Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
2026.2.23
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install openclaw@2026.2.23Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, avoid using GNU long-option abbreviations in your commands. Instead, use the exact strings that are specified in the allowlist, such as '--compress-program', to prevent any unauthorized command execution.
Conclusion
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-28363 in OpenClaw allows for a validation bypass through the use of GNU long-option abbreviations, posing a critical security risk. It is essential to update to version 2026.2.23 or later to mitigate this risk. Users should also avoid using abbreviated options as a temporary measure until the update can be applied.
See every vulnerability recorded for openclaw →
FAQ
The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.9, indicating it is critical and poses a significant risk to systems using OpenClaw.
You can use Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without requiring any signup.
If exploited, this vulnerability could allow unauthorized users to execute commands that should require approval, potentially leading to system compromise and data breaches.
Yes, you can mitigate the risk by avoiding the use of GNU long-option abbreviations in your commands until you can update to the patched version.
You can find more information about OpenClaw and its functionalities on its official repository or documentation page.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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