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How CVE-2026-53808 Works
OpenClaw before version 2026.5.6 contains an approval policy bypass vulnerability in the Skill Workshop apply flow. The flaw resides in the `applySkillConfigenvOverrides` function within the Skill Env Handler component. When an agent tool call is executed through the Skill Workshop apply flow, the system should verify that the `approvalPolicy` is in a complete state before allowing the `apply: true` parameter to take effect. However, the affected implementation allows the apply operation to proceed regardless of the `approvalPolicy` status, creating an exploitable condition.
Attackers can exploit this by reaching the affected apply path to apply workshop changes before the expected approval step, potentially modifying configurations without proper authorization. The vulnerability stems from improper validation of the approval workflow state, allowing malicious actors to circumvent the intended security controls that should prevent immediate application of changes. The flaw exists in the logical sequence of the apply process where the system fails to properly verify that the approval policy status is actually complete before executing the configuration modifications. This represents a failure in state management and validation controls within the system’s workflow engine.
The vulnerability 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. Practical impact depends on the operator’s configuration and whether lower-trust input can reach the affected path.
DailyCVE Form
Platform: OpenClaw
Version: < 2026.5.6
Vulnerability: Approval Policy Bypass
Severity: Medium (CVSS 6.5)
Date: 2026-06-11
Prediction: 2026-05-06
What Undercode Say
Analytics:
- EPSS Score: 0.002 (9.2% ranking)
- CVSS v3 Score: 6.5 (Medium)
- CVSS v4 Score: 6.0 (Medium)
- CWE: CWE-863 (Incorrect Authorization)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: Passive
- Integrity Impact: High
Bash Commands & Code:
Check OpenClaw version npm list openclaw Upgrade to patched version npm install [email protected] Verify installation npm list openclaw | grep 2026.5.6
Configuration Review:
{
"skillWorkshop": {
"approvalPolicy": "pending",
"apply": false // Should not be settable to true via agent calls
}
}
Exploit
An attacker can exploit CVE-2026-53808 by crafting an agent tool call that reaches the affected Skill Workshop apply path. The exploit bypasses the approval policy check, allowing `apply: true` to be set even when `approvalPolicy: pending` is configured. This enables unauthorized configuration modifications without the required approval step.
Protection
- Patch: Upgrade to OpenClaw version 2026.5.6 or later
- Mitigation: Review Skill Workshop changes manually and keep the tool restricted until patched
- Hardening: Keep channel and tool allowlists narrow
- Isolation: Avoid sharing one Gateway between mutually untrusted users
- Disable: Disable the affected feature when it is not needed
Impact
When the affected feature is enabled and reachable, this vulnerability could apply a workshop change before the expected approval step. Practical impact depends on the operator’s configuration and whether lower-trust input can reach that path. Attackers can potentially modify workshop configurations without proper authorization, leading to unauthorized access to system resources or modification of critical operational parameters. The vulnerability allows for immediate execution of changes that should normally require approval, effectively undermining the entire approval workflow mechanism.
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Sources:
Reported By: github.com
Extra Source Hub:
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