Chinese authorities have begun restricting the use of OpenClaw AI applications across government agencies and state-owned enterprises, moving quickly to address security concerns as the technology is rapidly being adopted by companies, developers and investors.
Notices issued in recent days warngovernment bodies and major state-run firms- including some of the country’s largest banks - not to install OpenClaw software on office computers, according toBloomberg, adding thatseveral organizations were told to report any existing installations for security reviews and possible removal.
Certain employees, including those at state-run banks and some government agencies, were banned from installing OpenClaw on office computersand also personal phones using the company’s network, some of the people said. One person saidthe ban extended to the families of military personnel.
The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.
The guidance reflects growing concern in Beijing over therisks posed by so-called agentic AI- systems that can autonomously perform tasks and interact with outside services. OpenClaw, which requires extensive access to private data and can communicate externally, has raised alarms among cybersecurity experts who warn the technology could expose systems to external attacks.
One researcher describedthe combination of access to sensitive data, outside communications and exposure to untrusted content as a“lethal trifecta.”
One user reportedthe agent “went rogue”and spammed hundreds of messages after gaining access to iMessage. Cybersecurity experts warn the tool is risky because it has access to private data, can communicate externally and is exposed to untrusted content. -Bloomberg
The issue carries particular sensitivity in China, where PresidentXi Jinping has emphasized data security as a cornerstone of his "holistic approach to national security.'CCP officials have tightened oversight of internet platforms and data-rich technology firms via their "Great Firewall" amid concerns about foreign access to sensitive information, including geospatial and genetic datasets.
The government has also shown a willingness to rein in powerful technology companies. In recent years regulators launched campaigns targeting major internet platforms, includingAlibaba Group Holding Ltd., citing concerns over data control and systemic risk.
OpenClaw has exploded in popularitywithin China’s technology ecosystem. Developed by Austrian programmer Peter Steinberger,the open-source AI agent - previously known as Clawdbot and Moltbot - can autonomously complete tasks such as managing emails, booking restaurants and checking in for flights.
Source: ZeroHedge News
