cache_append · Awslabs Valkey MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What cache_append does on Awslabs Valkey

AI agents use cache_append to create or update resources in Awslabs Valkey — usually the action step of a workflow, after the agent has gathered context. Every call changes real data in your Awslabs Valkey environment.

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why cache_append needs a policy

This tool modifies existing cached data by appending to it. It is a write operation (modification) that is reversible in principle (the value could be overwritten again), though it alters existing state. No code execution, deletion, or financial implications.

From the tool's definition Append a string to an existing value

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

cache_append Rate-limited

cache_append stays usable, but capped — an agent stuck in a loop can't make hundreds of changes a minute. Everything else on the server is denied unless you say otherwise.

View as policy code

policy.json

{
  "version": "1",
  "default": "deny",
  "tools": {
    "cache_append": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "cache_append_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 30,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

LIMIT THIS TOOL →

Instant setup, no code required.

PolicyLayer is an MCP gateway: every tool call is checked against your rule before it reaches Awslabs Valkey, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about cache_append

What does the cache_append tool do? +

Append a string to an existing value. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Awslabs Valkey MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on cache_append? +

Register the Awslabs Valkey MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for cache_append: allow, deny, rate-limit, or require approval. Point your MCP client at the PolicyLayer proxy URL and the rule is enforced on every call, before it reaches Awslabs Valkey. Nothing to install.

What risk level is cache_append? +

cache_append is a Write tool with medium risk. Write tools should be rate-limited to prevent accidental bulk modifications.

Can I rate-limit cache_append? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the cache_append rule in your PolicyLayer policy. For example, setting max: 10 and window: 60 limits the tool to 10 calls per minute. Rate limits are tracked per agent session and reset automatically.

How do I block cache_append completely? +

Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for cache_append. The AI agent will receive a policy violation error and cannot call the tool. You can also include a reason field to explain why the tool is blocked.

What MCP server provides cache_append? +

cache_append is provided by the Awslabs Valkey MCP server (awslabs.valkey-mcp-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.