China restricts OpenClaw from entering government and state-owned enterprises due to concerns over data leakage risks

As AI Agents technology rapidly emerges, China’s tech industry and local governments are experiencing a wave of AI application enthusiasm. However, while companies and developers actively adopt these technologies, Beijing authorities remain highly vigilant about the security risks involved. Bloomberg reports that the Chinese government has instructed multiple state-owned enterprises and government agencies to restrict the use of OpenClaw AI to prevent data leaks and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. This reflects China’s delicate policy balance between promoting AI innovation and safeguarding national data security.

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AI Agent Tools Go Viral: OpenClaw Sparks Industry and Market Frenzy

As a highly discussed AI agent tool, OpenClaw has quickly gained popularity in Western tech circles since its launch last November. Unlike traditional chat-focused large language models (LLMs), OpenClaw can autonomously perform multiple tasks, such as organizing emails, booking restaurants, and checking in for flights. It can also connect with messaging apps like WhatsApp and Slack, allowing users to control the AI agent via message commands.

These AI tools are favored by businesses and developers for automating daily tasks. Recently, several Chinese tech companies have also rapidly launched related applications. Tencent, Alibaba, JD.com, and AI startup Moonshot have all released products or modified versions based on OpenClaw technology. Some local governments have even announced subsidies worth millions of RMB to encourage companies to develop new applications on this platform.

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Security Concerns Emerge: China Restricts Government and State-Owned Enterprises from Installing OpenClaw

However, as OpenClaw’s popularity grows, Chinese regulators have begun to focus on potential security risks. Bloomberg cites sources saying that recently, the Chinese government has issued notices to multiple government agencies and state-owned enterprises, instructing them to avoid installing OpenClaw-related applications on office computers.

Some units have further restricted employees from using the software on personal phones connected to company networks, requiring reports to supervisors for security checks or removal if installed. The report notes that restrictions even extend to military personnel and their families. Others, while not outright banning, require managerial approval before use.

Data and Network Risks of AI Agents: The “Deadly Triple Threat”

Experts point out that the core issue with AI agents lies in their need for extensive system permissions and data access. OpenClaw can read large amounts of private data, communicate with external networks, and potentially access unverified content from various sources.

Cybersecurity researchers describe this as a “lethal trifecta,” meaning the simultaneous presence of data access, external communication, and untrusted content significantly increases the risk of system intrusion or misuse. Even industry veterans like OpenAI employee Nik Pash and Meta AI director Summer Yue have experienced mishaps due to operational errors, resulting in losses of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

China’s Dual-Track AI Development Strategy: Innovation and Regulation Coexist

Notably, while emphasizing security risks, Beijing has not slowed its AI development pace. Several local governments continue to offer subsidies to encourage companies to develop AI agent technologies. For example, AI model developer MiniMax saw its stock price surge approximately 640% within just two months of going public, surpassing Baidu, once considered a leader in China’s AI scene.

Analysts suggest that China’s long-term view regards data as a vital national security resource. Therefore, while promoting AI industry growth, the government also tightens regulation on sensitive technologies and data flows. The restriction on OpenClaw exemplifies how, amid rapid AI advancements, China seeks to balance innovation momentum with data security.

This article titled “China restricts OpenClaw access in government and state-owned enterprises over data leak concerns” first appeared on Chain News ABMedia.