npm_create_access_list · Nginx Manager MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What npm_create_access_list does on Nginx Manager

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why npm_create_access_list needs a policy

This tool creates access control configuration in Nginx Proxy Manager. While it modifies system state and security rules (elevating it above basic Read operations), it is reversible via deletion and does not execute arbitrary code or cause destructive/financial harm. Severity is medium because misconfiguration of access lists could block legitimate traffic or expose services, but changes can be undone.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'npm_create_access_list' and description 'Create an access list' indicate data creation. Access lists in Nginx Proxy Manager control network-level access policies, making this a Write operation that can affect traffic routing and security posture.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

npm_create_access_list Rate-limited

npm_create_access_list 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": {
    "npm_create_access_list": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "npm_create_access_list_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 Nginx Manager, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about npm_create_access_list

What does the npm_create_access_list tool do? +

Create an access list. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Nginx Manager MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on npm_create_access_list? +

Register the Nginx Manager MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for npm_create_access_list: 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 Nginx Manager. Nothing to install.

What risk level is npm_create_access_list? +

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

Can I rate-limit npm_create_access_list? +

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

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

npm_create_access_list is provided by the Nginx Manager MCP server (kognar-ai/ngnix-manager-mcp-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.