OpenClaw Security Risks

Risk 1: Prompt injection from untrusted content

When OpenClaw reads webpages or documents, hostile instructions can try to trick the model into unsafe actions. Reduce exposure by restricting tools, asking for a plan first, and confirming sensitive steps manually.

Risk 2: Credential leakage

API keys and tokens are high-value targets. Keep secrets in a dedicated store, avoid writing them to logs, and limit which directories skills can access.

Risk 3: Exposed admin or gateway ports

If management interfaces are reachable from the public internet, they become an easy target. Keep the gateway on a private network and use explicit admin pairing.

Risk 4: Untrusted skills

Skills can execute actions on your behalf. Only install trusted skills and review permissions. If you test new skills, use non-sensitive data first.

Practical defenses

Run in a container or isolated user account, apply minimal permissions, and keep versions updated. For high-risk tasks, require confirmation at each step.

Logging and audit trails

Keep logs enabled for critical actions and review them regularly. Clear audit trails help you understand which skill executed which action and when. This is especially important if multiple team members share the same OpenClaw instance.

Safer rollout strategy

Start with read-only workflows, then expand to write operations after you are confident in behavior. Set small guardrails, measure results, and only then increase access. A staged rollout reduces the chance of accidental data loss.

Backups and recovery

Keep backups of configuration files and critical data that OpenClaw can modify. If an automation misbehaves, a recent backup makes recovery painless. Treat automations like any other production system: plan for rollback before you need it.

Official reference

See the official security guidance: Security docs.