Is OpenClaw AI Safe? Here are the Security Risks

Agentic AI assistants are gaining popularity, one example being OpenClaw AI. So, are these tools safe to use? This is a reasonable question, considering they can access sensitive data, execute commands, and interact directly with various external services.

On the one hand, OpenClaw AI offers complete control because it's open-source and self-hosted. However, on the other hand, this immense power also carries significant security risks.

This article will objectively discuss OpenClaw AI from a security perspective, including potential risks, past cases, and how to use it more safely.

Key Takeaways

• OpenClaw AI is relatively safe in concept because it runs locally and is open-source.
• The biggest risks come from user configuration, rapid rebranding, and skill abuse.
• OpenClaw security relies heavily on the principle of “least access” and user discretion.

What is OpenClaw AI?

Image Source: CNET

OpenClaw AI is an open-source, self-hosted AI assistant that runs directly on a user's own device, such as a Mac Mini, Linux server, or Raspberry Pi.

OpenClaw can connect to messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, and perform various automated tasks.

Because OpenClaw is an agentic AI, this system does not just wait for commands, but can work independently based on the given goals.

This is where security issues become relevant. An AI that can read emails, access calendars, execute terminal commands, and communicate externally clearly has a much broader attack surface than a typical chatbot.

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OpenClaw AI Rebranding History

OpenClaw AI has rebranded several times. Originally known as Clawdbot AI, then transformed into Moltbot AI, and finally stabilized as OpenClaw.

This rapid name change is not just a branding issue, but also has a direct impact on user security.

This transition period is exploited by scammers to:

- Create a fake domain with a typo similar to the project name.

- Clone the GitHub repository.

- Launching fake crypto tokens under old names.

According to security reports, some fake repositories even initially appeared clean, only to be infected with malicious code in subsequent updates. This is known as a supply chain attack and is quite dangerous for unsuspecting users.

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Is OpenClaw AI Technically Safe?

The honest answer is that it is safe by design, but still risky if used carelessly.

Here are the security advantages of OpenClaw AI:

1. Self-hosted: Data is not sent to third party servers.

2. Open-source: Code can be audited by the community.

3. Full control: Users determine what access is granted to AI.

However, these advantages are only effective if users fully understand what they are installing and running.

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Lethal Trifecta: OpenClaw AI's Security Weaknesses

Some security experts say OpenClaw is in a condition called the lethal trifecta, namely:

- Have access to sensitive user data.

- Exposure to untrusted external content.

- Can communicate outwardly and carry out actions.

This combination makes OpenClaw extremely powerful, but also extremely dangerous if misused. There have even been reports of malicious actors using the skill feature to create hidden backdoors.

The problem isn't a major bug, but rather that AI is being given too much access without strict restrictions.

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Developer Attitudes Towards Security

The OpenClaw AI developers are quite open about this risk. In their documentation, they emphasize that no system can be completely secure if the AI ​​is given access to the real world.

The main principles emphasized are:

- Starting from the most minimal access.

- Expand permissions gradually.

- Always know who can interact with the bot.

- Limit the areas and data that AI can touch.

This approach places the responsibility for security in the hands of users, not just developers.

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Tips for Using OpenClaw AI More Safely

Here are tips for using OpenClaw AI more safely:

1. Use Minimum Access: Don't connect all your accounts, email addresses, and services to OpenClaw right away. Activate only the ones you absolutely need.

2. Avoid Skills from Unknown Sources: Community-created skills can be very helpful, but they can also be potentially dangerous. Make sure the source is trustworthy and the code is auditable.

3. Monitor AI Activity Regularly: Since OpenClaw can work independently, it is important to check the activity logs and ensure there is no suspicious behavior.

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Conclusion

So, is OpenClaw AI safe? The answer is: it can be safe, but it's not inherently secure. OpenClaw offers control and transparency rarely found in other AI assistants, but it also requires user maturity in managing access and risk.

When used with strict security principles, OpenClaw AI can be a very powerful assistant.

However, if installed carelessly, the risk is also commensurate with its strength.

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FAQ

Is OpenClaw AI safe for beginners?

It's relatively safe if you follow the documentation and don't give excessive access from the start.

Does OpenClaw AI save data to the cloud?

No, all processes run locally on the user's device.

Why is OpenClaw AI often associated with scams?

Because the rapid rebranding at the beginning made many parties take advantage of user confusion.

Can OpenClaw AI be hacked?

Like any other system, it can be compromised if it is poorly configured or uses malicious plugins.

Who is best suited to use OpenClaw AI?

Technical users, developers, and professionals who understand the security risks of agentic AI.