kubectl_create · Kubernetes MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What kubectl_create does on Kubernetes

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why kubectl_create needs a policy

This tool creates new Kubernetes resources (deployments, services, configmaps, etc.), which is a Write operation. However, 'subcommands' could include destructive or execute-level operations depending on what kubectl subcommands are exposed.

From the tool's definition 'Create Kubernetes resources using various methods (from file or using subcommands)'

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

kubectl_create Rate-limited

kubectl_create 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": {
    "kubectl_create": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "kubectl_create_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 30,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

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Instant setup, no code required.

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

FAQ

Questions about kubectl_create

What does the kubectl_create tool do? +

Create Kubernetes resources using various methods (from file or using subcommands). It is categorised as a Write tool in the Kubernetes MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on kubectl_create? +

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

What risk level is kubectl_create? +

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

Can I rate-limit kubectl_create? +

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

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

kubectl_create is provided by the Kubernetes MCP server (mcp-server-kubernetes). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.