CVE-2026-53846: OpenClaw < 2026.4.29 - Arbitrary Package Manager Execution via Workspace .env npm_execpath
Summary
Workspace .env npmexecpath could influence bundled runtime dependency install. In affected versions, a workspace .env in a repository opened by a trusted operator could override the package-manager executable path used by the install helper.
This advisory is scoped to the named feature and configuration. It 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.
Impact
When the affected feature is enabled and reachable, this could run an unintended local package-manager executable during dependency setup. Practical impact depends on the operator's configuration and whether lower-trust input can reach that path.
Patched Versions
The first stable patched version is 2026.4.29.
Mitigations
install bundled runtime dependencies from trusted workspaces until patched. As general hardening, keep channel and tool allowlists narrow, avoid sharing one Gateway between mutually untrusted users, and disable the affected feature when it is not needed.
Other sources
OpenClaw before 2026.4.29 contains a path traversal vulnerability in the install helper that allows workspace .env files to override the npmexecpath configuration used for bundled runtime dependency installation. Attackers with workspace access can execute unintended local package-manager executables during dependency setup to compromise the build environment.
— NVD
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
npm/openclawto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 2026.4.29 - Configuration
Disable the OpenClaw feature that allows a workspace .env to override npm_execpath when the feature is not required.
OpenClaw workspace .env npm_execpath handling enabled = false - Compensating control
Keep channel and tool allowlists narrow — restrict allowed package managers and tool channels to a minimal set of trusted entries.
- Compensating control
Avoid sharing a single Gateway between mutually untrusted users; deploy separate Gateways or enforce isolation per trust boundary.
- Compensating control
Only install bundled runtime dependencies from trusted workspaces until systems are upgraded to 2026.4.29.
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-53846?
The severity of CVE-2026-53846 is rated high with a score of 7.
How does CVE-2026-53846 affect OpenClaw?
CVE-2026-53846 allows arbitrary package manager execution via the workspace .env npm_execpath, which can override the installed executable path.
What versions of OpenClaw are impacted by CVE-2026-53846?
OpenClaw versions prior to 2026.4.29 are affected by CVE-2026-53846.
How do I fix CVE-2026-53846?
To mitigate CVE-2026-53846, update OpenClaw to version 2026.4.29 or later.
What is the nature of the vulnerability in CVE-2026-53846?
CVE-2026-53846 is a path traversal vulnerability that can lead to arbitrary command execution during package installation.