What happened
@openclaw/whatsapp (npm) before 2026.8.1 exposes the WhatsApp login tool through the generic channel-tool path without preserving the originating sender's owner status, so the owner-only tool boundary is not enforced. An admitted non-owner sender able to steer the tool can request a forced login and receive a new QR code for a configured account, disconnecting the Gateway's WhatsApp account and causing loss of availability; full account relinking additionally requires the attacker to scan the returned QR code with another phone. The issue affects the owner-only tool boundary rather than WhatsApp transport authentication. Fixed in 2026.8.1.
Affected versions
whatsapp: before 2026.8.1 (semver) Fixed: See vendor advisory.
Why it matters
Review the vendor advisory and exposure of the affected product to determine operational impact.
Detection & mitigation
- Apply vendor-provided updates or mitigations.
- Review affected product exposure and access logs.
Public PoC references
No public PoC reference has passed the current publication threshold.