CVE-2026-32061 in OpenClaw
Summary
by MITRE • 03/11/2026
OpenClaw versions prior to 2026.2.17 contain a path traversal vulnerability in the $include directive resolution that allows reading arbitrary local files outside the config directory boundary. Attackers with config modification capabilities can exploit this by specifying absolute paths, traversal sequences, or symlinks to access sensitive files readable by the OpenClaw process user, including API keys and credentials.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/24/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-32061 affects OpenClaw versions prior to 2026.2.17 and represents a critical path traversal flaw within the configuration processing mechanism. This issue specifically manifests in the handling of the $include directive which is commonly used to incorporate external configuration files into the main system configuration. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of file paths specified in the include directive, allowing attackers to manipulate the file resolution process beyond intended boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper path validation in the configuration parser component of OpenClaw. When the system processes an $include directive, it fails to properly sanitize or restrict the file paths provided, enabling attackers to specify absolute paths, utilize directory traversal sequences such as ../, or employ symbolic links to navigate outside the designated configuration directory. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22 Path Traversal vulnerability classification which is categorized under the Software Fault Pattern taxonomy. The vulnerability exists because the application does not perform adequate path normalization or boundary checking before resolving file references.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with unauthorized access to sensitive system information that may be readable by the OpenClaw process user. This includes but is not limited to API keys, database credentials, and other authentication tokens that could be stored in configuration files or accessible through symbolic links. The attack vector requires only configuration modification capabilities, which may be available to users with limited privileges or through supply chain compromise, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where configuration files are managed by multiple parties or where privilege escalation is possible. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.002 for initial access through spearphishing attachments and T1078 for valid accounts, as attackers could leverage compromised configuration access to gain further system access.
The exploitation of this vulnerability follows a systematic approach where attackers first identify the configuration files that can be modified, then craft malicious $include directives containing traversal sequences or absolute paths that point to sensitive files outside the intended configuration directory. The OpenClaw process user context is critical as it determines which files become accessible through this vulnerability, potentially exposing system-level credentials or configuration data. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to version 2026.2.17 or later which contains proper path validation, implementing restrictive file permissions on configuration directories, and conducting thorough code reviews of configuration processing logic to prevent similar issues. Additionally, monitoring for unusual configuration file modifications and implementing principle of least privilege for configuration file access can significantly reduce the attack surface and potential impact of this vulnerability.