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Errors / Missing Scope

Fix: Missing Scope

Error: "missing scope: operator read"

What It Means

OpenClaw uses a security system where agents need explicit permission ("scopes") to access tools. The "operator read" scope is required for the agent to read files, access memory, and perform other basic operations. Without it, the agent is locked out of most functionality.

Common Causes

  • •Agent configuration missing scope definitions
  • •Using a custom agent without proper permissions
  • •Upgraded OpenClaw with stricter default scopes

Ask Your Agent to Fix This

Copy this prompt and send it to your OpenClaw agent:

Check my agent configuration and add the "operator:read" scope if it's missing. Then tell me what scopes are currently enabled.

How to Fix It

Option 1: Add to Agent Config

Add the required scope to your agent configuration:

{ "agents": { "your-agent": { "scope": ["operator:read", "operator:write", "tools:*"] } } }

Option 2: Use CLI

openclaw configure

Follow the prompts to set up agent scopes.

How to Prevent This

  • ✓Use the default agent configuration from onboarding
  • ✓Run openclaw security audit to check scopes
  • ✓When creating custom agents, include necessary scopes

Related Errors

Unauthorized

Related auth error.

Security Guide

Security hardening.

Related Guides

Multiple Agents

Set up multiple agents.

Still having trouble?

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