The surge in popularity of OpenClaw, an AI agent that operates a personal computer on behalf of users, has led to a surprising 40% price hike for Apple’s Mac Mini in just two weeks. This spike stems from users recommending the Mac Mini as the ideal dedicated machine for running OpenClaw. However, despite its growing user base, major South Korean tech firms like Naver, Kakao, and Karrot are reportedly banning its internal use over concerns about potential data leakage.
According to the IT industry on February 9, OpenClaw, an open-source project released n late 2025 by Austrian developer Peter Steinberger, can perform tasks ranging from organizing files to sending emails at a user’s request. For example, if a user messages OpenClaw via WhatsApp or Telegram and ask it to locate a document on their computer and email it to their manager, OpenClaw executes the entire process. Unlike subscription-based AI services such as ChatGPT, OpenClaw requires users to grant extensive access to their PCs and email accounts.
Mac Mini M4 Prices Skyrocket 40% in Two Weeks
The OpenClaw craze spread from developer forums on GitHub to mainstream tech enthusiasts, with the Apple Mac Mini M4 emerging as the go-to device for running the AI efficiently. While the Mac Mini M4 had maintained stable pricing despite recent DRAM cost increases, the surge in demand for OpenClaw has led to supply shortages and subsequent price spikes.
According to price-comparisson site Danawa, the Mac Mini M4 with 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD consistently retailed for around 800,000 KRW (approximately 552 USD) from March last year until January 27. However, prices began climbing sharply in late January as OpenClaw gained traction. Currently, the same model is selling for approximately 1,120,000 KRW (approximately 773 USD), marking a 40% increase. Similarly, the variant with 24GB RAM and a 512GB SSD has jumped from about 1,300,000 KRW (approximately 897 USD) to 1,610,000 KRW (approximately 1,111 USD), a 24% rise.
A Danawa spokesperson noted, “Apple typically maintains tight control over pricing, rarely allowing fluctuations. However, the perfect storm of increased DRAM costs and the unexpected demand surge for Mac Minis to run OpenClaw has depleted existing stock, driving prices to unprecedented levels.”
Tech Giants Ban OpenClaw Use In-House
Major tech companies are now restricting OpenClaw usage due to concerns that its direct manipulation of users’ computers could potentially lead to leaks of sensitive corporate data or personal information. Cybersecurity firm HiddenLayer has identified a vulnerability in OpenClaw where users’ API keys are stored in plain text rather than being encrypted. This flaw could allow attackers to employ indirect prompt injection techniques, potentially exposing personal or financial data.
In response, South Korean tech industry leaders like Naver, Kakao, and Danggeun have announced bans on OpenClaw use within their corporate networks and on work devices. This marks the first widespread prohibition of a specific AI model since the restrictions placed on the Chinese AI model DeepSeek early last year. The Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has also expressed concerns, calling for robust identity verification and access control measures to prevent OpenClaw from becoming a potential data leak vector.
