The automation platform OpenClaw has integrated VirusTotal’s threat intelligence to scan all skills uploaded to its ClawHub marketplace. This partnership, announced this week, aims to enhance security for users of agentic AI systems by proactively identifying potentially malicious code. The move addresses growing concerns about the safety of third-party integrations within the rapidly expanding automation ecosystem.
Enhancing Security for Automated Agents
OpenClaw, previously known as Moltbot and Clawdbot, operates ClawHub as a central repository where users can share and download “skills.” These skills are modular pieces of code that extend the functionality of automated agents, enabling them to perform specific tasks. The company confirmed that every skill published to ClawHub will now undergo automated scanning using VirusTotal’s extensive database.
The scanning process leverages VirusTotal’s new Code Insight capability alongside its traditional malware detection engines. This provides a multi-layered analysis of the code’s behavior and potential threats. The initiative is described as a core component of broader efforts to strengthen security across the agentic landscape, where AI-powered agents interact with various software and data sources.
Addressing Ecosystem Vulnerabilities
The decision to implement mandatory scanning follows increased scrutiny on the security of AI agent platforms. As these systems gain the ability to execute code and interact with external applications, they create new potential vectors for cyber attacks. A malicious skill could, in theory, compromise user data or system integrity.
By partnering with VirusTotal, a subsidiary of Google’s Chronicle Security, OpenClaw gains access to one of the largest threat intelligence platforms globally. VirusTotal aggregates data from over 70 antivirus scanners and URL/domain blocklisting services, providing a comprehensive view of emerging threats. This allows for the detection of known malware signatures and suspicious code patterns within the skills before they become widely available to users.
Industry Context and Implementation
The integration is now active and applies to all new skill submissions on ClawHub. According to the announcement, existing skills in the marketplace may also be subject to retrospective scanning. The process is automated and does not require manual intervention from skill developers, aiming to maintain a seamless submission workflow while adding a critical security layer.
This development reflects a wider trend in the tech industry, where platforms hosting user-generated code or extensions are increasingly adopting formal security review processes. Similar measures are seen in major browser extension stores, mobile app marketplaces, and software plugin repositories to protect end-users from supply chain attacks.
Forward-Looking Security Measures
OpenClaw has indicated that the VirusTotal integration is a foundational step in its security roadmap. The company is expected to explore additional protective measures, which could include more advanced behavioral analysis for skills and enhanced developer verification processes. The long-term goal is to establish a trusted environment where enterprises and individual users can adopt automation tools with greater confidence in their safety and reliability.
Source: Original Announcement
