AI agents call ftp_stat 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 is a stat/metadata retrieval operation. It queries and returns information about remote files without creating, modifying, deleting, or executing anything. The word 'Retrieve' and the passive nature of reading metadata clearly places this in the Read category with low severity.
From the tool's definition Tool description states 'Retrieve comprehensive metadata' with no mention of modifications, deletions, or execution. It retrieves file/directory properties (size, timestamps, permissions) without side effects.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
Retrieve comprehensive metadata for a remote property, including size, modification timestamps, and UNIX permissions. 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_stat: 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_stat 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_stat 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_stat. 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_stat 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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