What happened
OpenClaw (npm package 'openclaw') versions >= 2026.4.5 and < 2026.8.1 can lose the originating requester's restrictions and untrusted provenance when session-derived text is persisted to session memory. In deployments where session-memory capture and dreaming are enabled, a restricted external sender whose messages are admitted with limited tools can persist instructions that are later supplied to an unattended background (dreaming) agent holding broader file and command capabilities, allowing actions beyond the authority of the original turn and affecting files, commands, or services available to that agent. Exploitation requires the content to be captured, selected for later processing, and followed by the model. The issue is fixed in 2026.8.1.
Affected versions
OpenClaw: 2026.4.5 through 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.