OpenClaw: Skill-command dispatch could skip before-tool-call hooks

Summary

Skill-command dispatch could skip before-tool-call hooks. In affected versions, a skill command routed through the affected dispatch path could run without the same runBeforeToolCallHook coverage as other tool entry points.

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 miss hook-based auditing or policy parity for that command path. 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 2026.5.6.

Mitigations

avoid relying on hook-only enforcement for skill commands 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.