CVE-2026-31992 in OpenClaw
Summary
by MITRE • 03/19/2026
OpenClaw versions prior to 2026.2.23 contain an allowlist bypass vulnerability in system.run guardrails that allows authenticated operators to execute unintended commands. When /usr/bin/env is allowlisted, attackers can use env -S to bypass policy analysis and execute shell wrapper payloads at runtime.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/23/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-31992 represents a critical security flaw in OpenClaw versions prior to 2026.2.23 that undermines the system.run guardrails mechanism designed to prevent unauthorized command execution. This weakness specifically targets the allowlist implementation that is meant to restrict which commands can be executed by authenticated operators within the system. The vulnerability manifests when the /usr/bin/env binary is included in the allowlist, creating an unintended pathway for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution. The flaw operates through a sophisticated bypass technique that exploits the inherent capabilities of the env command to execute shell wrapper payloads, effectively circumventing the intended security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of command execution within the policy enforcement framework. When /usr/bin/env is allowlisted, attackers can leverage the env -S option to construct malicious command sequences that bypass the policy analysis engine. This command-line option allows for the specification of environment variables in a format that enables shell command execution, creating a vector where authenticated users can inject and execute unintended shell commands. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the security model where the presence of a seemingly benign utility in the allowlist creates an attack surface that can be exploited through legitimate system features. The bypass mechanism operates at the runtime execution layer, where the policy enforcement system fails to properly analyze the command arguments and their potential for shell injection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it enables authenticated operators to perform unauthorized system activities that could lead to complete system compromise. Attackers can utilize this vulnerability to escalate privileges, access restricted system resources, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the OpenClaw environment. The implications are particularly severe because the vulnerability requires only authenticated access, meaning that any user with valid credentials can exploit this weakness without requiring additional privileges or specialized attack tools. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where multiple operators have access to the system, as it creates a potential attack vector that can be exploited by both malicious insiders and external attackers who have gained legitimate credentials.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through the deployment of OpenClaw version 2026.2.23 or later, which includes patched guardrail mechanisms that properly handle the env command and its options. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring of system execution logs to detect anomalous command patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The security configuration should be reviewed to ensure that the /usr/bin/env binary is not unnecessarily allowlisted, and if required, strict parameter validation should be implemented to prevent the execution of shell wrapper payloads. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security audits can help reduce the risk exposure associated with this vulnerability. This remediation approach aligns with cybersecurity best practices and addresses the underlying CWE-78 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command) vulnerability pattern that is commonly exploited in command injection attacks. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this vulnerability under T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell) and T1059.003 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: Windows Command Shell) as it enables the execution of shell commands through legitimate system utilities.