OpenClaw Security Checklist: Protect API Keys, Tools and Agent Permissions

This practical DigitalBerg tutorial is part of our dedicated-server AI operations series. It builds on our OpenClaw and AI software installation guide and our Claude and OpenAI agent setup guide. The Jupiter dedicated server is the reference environment; verify your actual OS, access rights and application versions before applying commands.

In this guide: Secure agent permissions, credentials, audit logs and approvals. The examples are instructional, not claimed live benchmarks or verified deployment screenshots.

Define a threat model

Identify which users, tools, documents, external services and credentials an agent can access. Consider prompt injection from web pages, leaked tokens, malicious plugins and accidental destructive commands.

Use minimum privileges

Create a separate Linux account for the gateway and a separate API key per provider/project. Disable unnecessary shell, file-write and browser capabilities. Require human approval for administrative actions and external messages.

Keep secrets out of prompts

Store provider keys in approved secret storage or protected configuration, never in AGENTS.md, screenshots or GitHub. Rotate credentials after suspected exposure. Inspect logs before sharing them because they may contain identifiers.

Limit the attack surface

Keep the dashboard private, enforce authentication, update dependencies, pin trusted plugins and test integrations in staging. A publicly exposed agent dashboard can turn a minor configuration mistake into a serious incident.

Test failures deliberately

Ask the agent to reveal a token, delete a directory or obey malicious text embedded in a retrieved document. It should refuse or request explicit approval as appropriate. Document results and retest after updates.

Pre-publication and production checklist

• Verify commands and current upstream documentation on a non-production system.
• Never include real API keys, customer data or private host identifiers in examples.
• Document rollback and recovery before changing a live service.
• Compare current provider pricing, policies and compatibility with your requirements.

Frequently asked questions

Does this require a GPU?

Not for hosted-model API gateway and agent workloads. Local inference has different hardware requirements.

Can this be used on a production server?

Only after environment-specific testing, security review and an approved rollback plan.

Where can I get a dedicated server?

Explore DigitalBerg dedicated servers, infrastructure options and support terms.