Low Risk

pytest

Runs pytest and returns structured test results (passed, failed, errors, skipped, failures).

Accepts file system path (path); High parameter count (15 properties)

Part of the Python MCP server. Enforce policies on this tool with Intercept, the open-source MCP proxy.

@paretools/python Read Risk 2/5

AI agents call pytest to retrieve information from Python without modifying any data. This is common in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows where the agent needs context before taking action. Because read operations don't change state, they are generally safe to allow without restrictions -- but you may still want rate limits to control API costs.

Even though pytest only reads data, uncontrolled read access can leak sensitive information or rack up API costs. An agent caught in a retry loop could make thousands of calls per minute. A rate limit gives you a safety net without blocking legitimate use.

Read-only tools are safe to allow by default. No rate limit needed unless you want to control costs.

io-github-dave-london-pare-python.yaml
tools:
  pytest:
    rules:
      - action: allow

See the full Python policy for all 14 tools.

Tool Name pytest
Category Read
MCP Server Python MCP Server
Risk Level Low

View all 14 tools →

What does the pytest tool do? +

Runs pytest and returns structured test results (passed, failed, errors, skipped, failures).. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Python MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.

How do I enforce a policy on pytest? +

Add a rule in your Intercept YAML policy under the tools section for pytest. You can allow, deny, rate-limit, or validate arguments. Then run Intercept as a proxy in front of the Python MCP server.

What risk level is pytest? +

pytest is a Read tool with low risk. Read-only tools are generally safe to allow by default.

Can I rate-limit pytest? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the pytest rule in your Intercept 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 pytest completely? +

Set action: deny in the Intercept policy for pytest. 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 pytest? +

pytest is provided by the Python MCP server (@paretools/python). Intercept sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.

Enforce policies on Python

Open source. One binary. Zero dependencies.

npx -y @policylayer/intercept
github.com/policylayer/intercept →
// GET IN TOUCH

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