CVE-2026-27524: OpenClaw's runtime /debug override path accepted prototype-reserved keys

Summary

OpenClaw accepted prototype-reserved keys in runtime /debug set override object values (__proto__, constructor, prototype).

Impact

/debug is disabled by default, and exploitation requires an already authorized /debug set caller. No unauthenticated vector was identified.

This issue affects runtime in-memory overrides only (non-persistent and cleared on restart/reset). Given the required prior authorization boundary, this is treated as defense-in-depth hardening for command flag evaluation.

Affected Packages / Versions

• Package: openclaw (npm)
• Latest published vulnerable version confirmed: 2026.2.19-2
• Vulnerable range: <= 2026.2.19-2
• Patched in planned next release: 2026.2.21

Technical Details

• Runtime override merges now block reserved prototype keys during deep merge.
• Runtime override writes now sanitize nested object values to remove reserved prototype keys before storing overrides.
• Restricted command gates (bash, config, debug) now require own-property boolean flags, preventing inherited prototype values from enabling commands.

Fix Commit(s)

• fbb79d4013000552d6a2c23b9613d8b3cb92f6b6

Release Process Note

patched_versions is pre-set to 2026.2.21 so after the npm release is live, this advisory can be published immediately.

OpenClaw thanks @tdjackey for reporting.