OpenClaw: macOS optional allowlist basename matching could bypass path-based policy

Summary

On macOS node-host, optional exec-approval allowlist mode previously treated basename-only entries (for example echo) as trusted command matches. This could allow a same-name local binary (for example ./echo) to run without approval under security=allowlist + ask=on-miss.

Scope / Preconditions

• macOS node-host path.
• Optional exec approvals feature enabled with security=allowlist.
• Basename-only allowlist entries configured.

Default install posture is not impacted: security=deny by default.

Affected Packages / Versions

• Package: openclaw (npm)
• Latest published npm version at triage time: 2026.2.21-2
• Vulnerable range: <=2026.2.21-2
• Planned patched version (next release): >= 2026.2.22

Remediation

• Enforced path-only allowlist matching on macOS node-host (basename fallback removed).
• Added migration for legacy basename allowlist entries to last-resolved paths when available.
• UI/store validation now rejects non-path allowlist patterns.

Fix Commit(s)

• dd41fadcaf58fd9deb963d6e163c56161e7b35dd

Release Process Note

Patched version is pre-set for the planned next release (2026.2.22). Once that npm release is out, advisory can be published without further field edits.

OpenClaw thanks @tdjackey for reporting.