state_backup · HashPilot MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What state_backup does on HashPilot

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why state_backup needs a policy

This tool creates a new file (timestamped backup) in a directory, which is a write operation. It does not delete or overwrite existing data, execute code, or perform financial transactions. The severity is medium because it exports potentially sensitive configuration data (address book, network configuration) to a file, though private keys are excluded by default.

From the tool's definition Backup MCP server state including address book and network configuration. Creates timestamped backup file in backups/ directory.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

state_backup Rate-limited

state_backup 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": {
    "state_backup": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "state_backup_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 HashPilot, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about state_backup

What does the state_backup tool do? +

Backup MCP server state including address book and network configuration. By default, excludes private keys for security. Creates timestamped backup file in backups/ directory. It is categorised as a Write tool in the HashPilot MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on state_backup? +

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

What risk level is state_backup? +

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

Can I rate-limit state_backup? +

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

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

state_backup is provided by the HashPilot MCP server (justmert/hashpilot). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.