CVE-2026-43578: OpenClaw 2026.3.31 < 2026.4.10 - Privilege Escalation via Missed Async Exec Completion Events in Heartbeat Owner Downgrade

Published May 6, 2026
·
Updated

OpenClaw versions 2026.3.31 before 2026.4.10 contain a privilege escalation vulnerability where heartbeat owner downgrade detection misses local background async exec completion events. Attackers can exploit this by providing untrusted completion content to leave a run in a more privileged context than intended.

Affected Software

2 affected components
OpenClaw OpenClaw>=2026.3.31<2026.4.10
OpenClaw Openclaw Node.js>=2026.3.31<2026.4.10

Event History

May 6, 2026
CVE Published
via MITRE·07:49 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·07:49 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Data Sourced
via NVD·08:16 PM
RemedyDescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2026-43578?

CVE-2026-43578 has been rated as a critical severity vulnerability due to its potential for privilege escalation.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-43578?

To fix CVE-2026-43578, update OpenClaw to version 2026.4.10 or later.

3

What does CVE-2026-43578 affect?

CVE-2026-43578 affects OpenClaw versions from 2026.3.31 up to 2026.4.10.

4

What type of vulnerability is CVE-2026-43578?

CVE-2026-43578 is classified as a privilege escalation vulnerability.

5

What causes CVE-2026-43578?

CVE-2026-43578 is caused by missed async exec completion events leading to improper heartbeat owner downgrade detection.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203