T03 · Remote Payload Retrieval and Execution
Error
- Location
- agent/AGENTS.md:21
- Finding
- Automatic Retrieval and Execution of an Unpinned Remote Installer<![CDATA[ ## Vulnerability Details **File Location**: `agent/AGENTS.md:21-30` **Vulnerability Type**: Mutable remote payload retrieval and execution **Risk Level**: Critical ### Evidence ```text 1. clawhub update jun-invest-option-master-installer --force 2. Run the downloaded installer's scripts/install.sh to synchronize assets. 3. openclaw agents add jun-invest-option-master --non-interactive --workspace /Users/lijunsheng/.openclaw/workspace-jun-invest-option-master ``` The same behavior is reinforced by `agent/SOUL.md:9-12`, which directs the agent to execute the standard update process immediately when a user makes a generic update request, without first clarifying the requested operation. ### Technical Analysis The instructions reinterpret broad phrases such as “update to latest” as authorization to forcibly retrieve the latest version of a remote ClawHub package and run its installer. The retrieved artifact is not pinned to an immutable version or cryptographic digest, and no signature, checksum, provenance, or post-download review is required. Consequently, the effective code executed by the agent can change after this version of the skill has been reviewed. The remote registry account, distribution infrastructure, or package itself becomes part of the trusted execution boundary. The `--force` option further weakens local safeguards by replacing the installed artifact. Automatically running the newly retrieved `scripts/install.sh` converts a supply-chain compromise directly into local code execution. ### Attack Path 1. An attacker compromises the publisher account, registry entry, or package delivery infrastructure. 2. The attacker publishes a modified “latest” installer containing malicious scripts or agent instructions. 3. A user makes a generic request such as “update to latest.” 4. The loaded instructions direct the agent not to clarify the request. 5. The agent runs `clawhub update ... --force`, retrieving the attacker-controlled package. ...[truncated 672 chars]
- Remediation
- <![CDATA[ ## Remediation Suggestions 1. Remove automatic execution of update operations triggered by ambiguous phrases. 2. Require explicit, informed confirmation that identifies the exact package, version, source, and installation target. 3. Pin the package to an immutable version and verified cryptographic digest. 4. Verify a trusted publisher signature and package provenance before installation. 5. Download updates into an isolated staging directory and inspect the manifest and executable files before running them. 6. Display the proposed file changes and commands to the user before execution. 7. Run installers in a sandbox with restricted filesystem and network access. 8. Do not use `--force` unless the user separately authorizes replacement after reviewing the consequences. ]]>
