set_api_token · Todoist MCP Helper MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What set_api_token does on Todoist MCP Helper

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why set_api_token needs a policy

This tool modifies runtime configuration by writing/updating the API token. While it doesn't directly alter task data, it changes a critical authentication credential, making it a Write operation.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'set_api_token' and description 'Set or update the Todoist API Token at runtime' indicate modification of authentication credentials.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

set_api_token Rate-limited

set_api_token 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": {
    "set_api_token": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "set_api_token_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 Todoist MCP Helper, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about set_api_token

What does the set_api_token tool do? +

Set or update the Todoist API Token at runtime. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Todoist MCP Helper MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on set_api_token? +

Register the Todoist MCP Helper MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for set_api_token: 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 Todoist MCP Helper. Nothing to install.

What risk level is set_api_token? +

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

Can I rate-limit set_api_token? +

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

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

set_api_token is provided by the Todoist MCP Helper MCP server (littlepeter52012/todoist-mcp-helper). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.