AI agents call ftp_list to retrieve information from Ftp without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
This tool performs a directory listing operation, which is a non-destructive read-only action. It queries the remote filesystem to enumerate files and directories but does not create, modify, delete, or execute anything. The blast radius of misuse is minimal—an agent could only enumerate available files, which does not compromise data integrity or trigger unwanted operations.
From the tool's definition Tool name 'ftp_list' and description 'List files and directories in a remote path' indicate a query operation that retrieves directory contents without modification.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
List files and directories in a remote path. Use. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Ftp MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the Ftp MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for ftp_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 Ftp. Nothing to install.
ftp_list is a Read tool with low risk. Read-only tools are generally safe to allow by default.
Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the ftp_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.
Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for ftp_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.
ftp_list is provided by the Ftp MCP server (kynlos/ftp-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
Every MCP server has a record like this.
Type a name, get the same breakdown: verified identity, auth posture, risk grade, capabilities, recommended policy.
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