GHSA-j472-gf56-x589: OpenClaw: PowerShell encoded-command aliases could miss exec allowlist checks
OpenClaw versions prior to 2026.5.12 have a vulnerability where PowerShell encoded-command aliases may bypass execution allowlist checks. This occurs because abbreviated encoded-command flags can use alias forms not recognized by the allowlist parser. The vulnerability affects configurations where this feature is enabled and reachable, potentially allowing execution of encoded PowerShell content without proper allowlist validation. The issue does not alter OpenClaw's trusted-operator model and depends on operator configuration and input trust levels. A fix is available in version 2026.5.12. Until patched, it is recommended to avoid allowlisting PowerShell wrapper forms and require approval for encoded commands. Additional hardening includes narrowing allowlists, isolating Gateway users, and disabling the affected feature if not needed.
AI Analysis
Technical Summary
This vulnerability in OpenClaw allows PowerShell encoded-command aliases to bypass execution allowlist checks due to the allowlist parser not recognizing abbreviated encoded-command flag aliases. This can lead to execution of encoded PowerShell commands without intended allowlist enforcement when the affected feature is enabled and accessible. The vulnerability is scoped to the named feature and does not affect the overall trusted-operator model of OpenClaw. The first stable patched version addressing this issue is 2026.5.12.
Potential Impact
If the affected feature is enabled and reachable, attackers or lower-trust inputs could execute encoded PowerShell commands without passing the intended allowlist checks. The practical impact depends on the operator's configuration and whether untrusted input can reach this execution path. This could lead to unauthorized command execution within the context of OpenClaw.
Mitigation Recommendations
A fix is available in OpenClaw version 2026.5.12. Until systems are updated, avoid allowlisting PowerShell wrapper forms and require explicit approval for encoded commands. Additionally, keep channel and tool allowlists narrow, avoid sharing a Gateway instance between mutually untrusted users, and disable the affected feature if it is not required.
GHSA-j472-gf56-x589: OpenClaw: PowerShell encoded-command aliases could miss exec allowlist checks
Description
OpenClaw versions prior to 2026.5.12 have a vulnerability where PowerShell encoded-command aliases may bypass execution allowlist checks. This occurs because abbreviated encoded-command flags can use alias forms not recognized by the allowlist parser. The vulnerability affects configurations where this feature is enabled and reachable, potentially allowing execution of encoded PowerShell content without proper allowlist validation. The issue does not alter OpenClaw's trusted-operator model and depends on operator configuration and input trust levels. A fix is available in version 2026.5.12. Until patched, it is recommended to avoid allowlisting PowerShell wrapper forms and require approval for encoded commands. Additional hardening includes narrowing allowlists, isolating Gateway users, and disabling the affected feature if not needed.
CVSS v4.0
Affected software
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Weaknesses
AI-Powered Analysis
Machine-generated threat intelligence
Technical Analysis
This vulnerability in OpenClaw allows PowerShell encoded-command aliases to bypass execution allowlist checks due to the allowlist parser not recognizing abbreviated encoded-command flag aliases. This can lead to execution of encoded PowerShell commands without intended allowlist enforcement when the affected feature is enabled and accessible. The vulnerability is scoped to the named feature and does not affect the overall trusted-operator model of OpenClaw. The first stable patched version addressing this issue is 2026.5.12.
Potential Impact
If the affected feature is enabled and reachable, attackers or lower-trust inputs could execute encoded PowerShell commands without passing the intended allowlist checks. The practical impact depends on the operator's configuration and whether untrusted input can reach this execution path. This could lead to unauthorized command execution within the context of OpenClaw.
Mitigation Recommendations
A fix is available in OpenClaw version 2026.5.12. Until systems are updated, avoid allowlisting PowerShell wrapper forms and require explicit approval for encoded commands. Additionally, keep channel and tool allowlists narrow, avoid sharing a Gateway instance between mutually untrusted users, and disable the affected feature if it is not required.
Technical Details
- Gcve Source
- db.gcve.eu
- Osv Id
- GHSA-j472-gf56-x589
- Osv Schema Version
- 1.4.0
- Aliases
- []
- Ecosystems
- ["npm"]
- Database Specific Severity
- HIGH
- Cvss Version
- 4.0
Threat ID: 6a46ecc527e9c7971943d827
Added to database: 07/02/2026, 22:57:09 UTC
Last enriched: 07/02/2026, 23:18:08 UTC
Last updated: 07/03/2026, 03:26:28 UTC
Views: 4
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