CVE-2026-53837: OpenClaw · Mattermost handlers could fall open when channel type was missing
Affects openclawSource GCVE Database
Mentioned vulnerabilities
CVSS 3.7 Low : upgrade to 2026.5.6 when convenient.
Data as of 28 Aug 2026, 17:08 UTC
- Patch
- Available – fixed in 2026.5.6
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:NWhat to do
Upgrade openclaw to 2026.5.6.
Affected software
| Product | Affected | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|
| npmopenclaw | Affected
| Fixed in
|
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AI-suggested
A fix is available in version 2026.5.6. Until patched, restrict Mattermost bot access and monitor channel metadata errors. Additionally, narrow channel and tool allowlists, avoid sharing a Gateway between mutually untrusted users, and disable the affected feature if it is not required.
Description
### Summary Mattermost handlers could fall open when channel type was missing. In affected versions, a Mattermost event missing channel type metadata could continue without applying the intended DM policy decision. This advisory is scoped to the named feature and configuration. It does not change OpenClaw's trusted-operator model: authenticated Gateway operators, installed plugins, and intentional local execution surfaces remain trusted unless a separate policy, approval, allowlist, sandbox, or auth boundary is crossed. ### Impact When the affected feature is enabled and reachable, this could process a Mattermost event that should have been gated by channel policy. Practical impact depends on the operator's configuration and whether lower-trust input can reach that path. ### Patched Versions The first stable patched version is `2026.5.6`. ### Mitigations keep Mattermost bot access restricted and review channel metadata errors until patched. As general hardening, keep channel and tool allowlists narrow, avoid sharing one Gateway between mutually untrusted users, and disable the affected feature when it is not needed.
References
- github.com/openclaw/openclaw/security/advisories/GHSA-gp79-m99v-gjmh (opens in a new tab)
- github.com/openclaw/openclaw (opens in a new tab)
- nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2026-53837 (opens in a new tab)
- vulncheck.com/advisories/openclaw-missing-channel-type-validation-in-mattermost-event-handlers (opens in a new tab)