What happened
OpenClaw (npm package openclaw) versions >= 2026.5.2 and < 2026.8.1 contain an incorrect authorization vulnerability in WhatsApp group handling. A group sender who is admitted for ordinary messages but denied by commands.allowFrom or owner command authorization can issue the /new <model> command to reset the shared group session and persist a provider and model override. This allows a command-denied group member to select a provider and model already permitted by the operator for subsequent turns in the shared group session, potentially changing provider routing, cost, data flow, or availability. It does not allow adding a new provider or host command execution. The issue is fixed in version 2026.8.1.
Affected versions
OpenClaw: 2026.5.2 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.