update_row · DataBeak MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What update_row does on DataBeak

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why update_row needs a policy

'update_row' modifies CSV data reversibly without deletion or irreversible effects, fitting Write category. Severity is medium because CSV data manipulation can affect downstream analysis, but effects are typically reversible via undo or data restoration. Confidence is 0.85 rather than higher due to missing description, though the tool name and server context (CSV transformation tools) provide strong signal.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'update_row' indicates modification of existing data rows. Sibling tools include 'delete_row' (destructive) and 'fill_missing_values' (write), establishing this server's data manipulation scope. Description is empty, limiting precision.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

update_row Rate-limited

update_row 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": {
    "update_row": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "update_row_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 DataBeak, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about update_row

What does the update_row tool do? +

update_row. It is categorised as a Write tool in the DataBeak MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on update_row? +

Register the DataBeak MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for update_row: 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 DataBeak. Nothing to install.

What risk level is update_row? +

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

Can I rate-limit update_row? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the update_row 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 update_row completely? +

Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for update_row. 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 update_row? +

update_row is provided by the DataBeak MCP server (jonpspri/databeak). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.