CVE-2026-31994 in OpenClaw
Summary
by MITRE • 03/19/2026
OpenClaw versions prior to 2026.2.19 contain a local command injection vulnerability in Windows scheduled task script generation due to unsafe handling of cmd metacharacters and expansion-sensitive characters in gateway.cmd files. Local attackers with control over service script generation arguments can inject arbitrary commands by providing metacharacter-only values or CR/LF sequences that execute unintended code in the scheduled task context.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/23/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-31994 represents a critical local command injection flaw within OpenClaw software versions prior to 2026.2.19, specifically affecting Windows environments through improper handling of command metacharacters during scheduled task script generation. This security weakness resides in the gateway.cmd file processing mechanism where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input parameters that are subsequently incorporated into Windows scheduled task configurations. The flaw manifests when service script generation arguments contain unsafe characters that are interpreted by the command processor rather than treated as literal values, creating an avenue for malicious code execution within the context of scheduled tasks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices within the Windows scheduled task generation module. When OpenClaw processes service configuration parameters, it directly incorporates user-provided values into cmd.exe command invocations without proper escaping or encoding of special metacharacters such as ampersands, semicolons, pipes, and other command processor operators. Additionally, the vulnerability extends to carriage return and line feed sequences that can be used to break out of intended command contexts and inject additional commands. This unsafe handling pattern aligns with CWE-78, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS command injection attacks, and CWE-94, covering improper control of generation of code. The attack vector requires local system access with privileges sufficient to influence service script generation parameters, making it a local privilege escalation vulnerability that can be leveraged by attackers with basic user accounts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it allows attackers to manipulate scheduled tasks that typically run with elevated privileges. When an attacker successfully injects malicious commands through the gateway.cmd file, these commands execute within the scheduled task context, potentially enabling privilege escalation, persistence mechanisms, or data exfiltration activities. The vulnerability affects Windows environments where OpenClaw is deployed, particularly in enterprise settings where scheduled tasks are commonly used for automated service management. The attack scenario involves an attacker who can influence the service script generation process to include specially crafted parameters containing metacharacters, which then get processed by cmd.exe and executed as part of the scheduled task. This creates a persistent threat vector that could remain active until the affected software is patched or the scheduled task is manually removed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2026-31994 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future implementations. The primary recommendation involves updating to OpenClaw version 2026.2.19 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and command parameter escaping mechanisms. Organizations should also implement strict input validation at multiple layers of the application architecture, ensuring that all user-supplied parameters are properly escaped before being incorporated into command line invocations. The implementation of secure coding practices, including parameterized command execution and proper shell escaping techniques, should be enforced throughout the development lifecycle. Additionally, system administrators should review and audit existing scheduled tasks generated by OpenClaw to identify potential malicious modifications and implement monitoring solutions to detect unusual command execution patterns. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command injection and privilege escalation, specifically covering T1059.003 for command and script injection and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing least privilege principles for scheduled task execution and regular security assessments of automated service management processes.