OpenClaw Security Fears Lead Meta, Other AI Firms To Restrict Its Use
Slashdot
by BeauHDFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Tech companies are increasingly restricting access to OpenClaw, an experimental AI tool, due to growing security concerns. Executives from major firms like Meta have banned its use on work devices, citing potential risks such as unpredictable behavior and data breaches. These measures highlight the priority companies are placing on cybersecurity over experimentation with emerging AI technologies.
Jason Grad, CEO of Massive, issued a warning to his employees, urging them to avoid OpenClaw due to its untested nature. Similarly, Valere’s CEO Guy Pistone banned the tool after an employee suggested exploring it internally. Pistone emphasized the potential for OpenClaw to access sensitive client data, including credit card information and codebases, if given access to a developer's machine.
Despite these restrictions, some companies are taking a cautious approach to study OpenClaw further. Valere’s research team was allowed limited testing on an old computer, but they concluded that significant safeguards, such as user authentication and restricted command access, would be necessary for secure use. They also noted that users must acknowledge the risk of being tricked by malicious actors.
The concerns surrounding OpenClaw reflect broader worries about the security of AI tools with agency. While some companies are prioritizing mitigation over investigation, others are investing time to identify vulnerabilities and implement safeguards. The outcome could determine whether OpenClaw becomes a secure tool for businesses or remains too risky to adopt.
This situation underscores the critical need for responsible innovation in AI, particularly as tools like OpenClaw gain popularity. Companies are balancing their desire to experiment with new technologies against the urgent priority of protecting sensitive data and maintaining user trust. The outcome could set a precedent for how organizations approach similar AI tools in the future.
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Originally published on Slashdot on 2/20/2026