OpenClaw is safe to use when properly configured and hosted on secure infrastructure. Like any powerful software, its security depends on how it is deployed and maintained. Running a misconfigured instance on the open internet without authentication is dangerous. Running it behind proper authentication on hardened infrastructure is safe.

The security landscape

Security researchers have identified real risks with OpenClaw deployments. Over 135,000 instances have been found exposed on the internet without authentication. A critical vulnerability allowed remote code execution through a single browser click. And malicious skills have been discovered in the community skill library.

These are serious issues, but they all stem from misconfiguration and lack of basic security practices, not from fundamental flaws in the software itself.

How OpenClaw.rocks keeps you safe

OpenClaw.rocks addresses every known security concern through its managed hosting infrastructure:

  • Proxy-level authentication: Every request to your agent passes through an authenticated gateway. No unauthenticated access is possible, even if the underlying OpenClaw instance has a vulnerability.
  • Network isolation: Your agent runs in its own isolated environment. It cannot access other customers’ agents or data.
  • TLS encryption: All connections are encrypted end-to-end. No data travels in plain text.
  • EU data residency: Your data stays in German data centers and never leaves the EU.
  • Automated security updates: When OpenClaw releases security patches, they are applied to your instance automatically.
  • Skill vetting: The managed platform restricts which skills can be installed, preventing malicious code from running on your agent.
  • DDoS protection: Enterprise-grade protection is built into the infrastructure.

Self-hosting security checklist

If you choose to self-host OpenClaw, follow these minimum security requirements:

  1. Never expose OpenClaw directly to the internet. Always place it behind a reverse proxy with authentication.
  2. Enable gateway tokens. Set a strong OPENCLAW_GATEWAY_TOKEN and require it for all API access.
  3. Use TLS everywhere. Configure proper certificates for all connections.
  4. Keep OpenClaw updated. Security patches are released regularly. Apply them promptly.
  5. Audit installed skills. Only install skills from trusted sources. Review the code before running it.
  6. Restrict network access. Limit which external services your OpenClaw instance can reach.
  7. Monitor logs. Watch for unusual activity or unauthorized access attempts.

Is the data I share with OpenClaw private?

On OpenClaw.rocks, your conversations and data are stored on dedicated infrastructure in the EU. Your data is encrypted at rest and in transit. It is never used to train AI models. You can delete your data at any time by canceling your account.

The AI providers (OpenAI, Anthropic, etc.) have their own privacy policies for API usage. Most major providers state that API data is not used for training, but review their current policies for details.

Comparing security to other AI tools

Compared to browser-based AI tools like ChatGPT or Claude, OpenClaw on managed hosting offers stronger isolation. Your agent runs in a dedicated environment rather than a shared multi-tenant platform. You also have the option to bring your own AI keys, keeping your API usage separate from any shared infrastructure.

Compared to self-hosted solutions, OpenClaw.rocks removes the burden of security maintenance. You do not need to track CVEs, apply patches, or configure firewalls.

Learn more