AI agents call lsp_goto_definition to retrieve information from Lsp without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
lsp_goto_definition is a read-only navigation tool that retrieves metadata about code structure (definition locations). It queries the Language Server Protocol to locate definitions but does not execute code, modify files, or trigger side effects. This is consistent with sibling tools like lsp_find_references and lsp_document_symbols, which are all informational queries.
From the tool's definition Tool description explicitly states it 'Find[s] where a function, class, or variable is defined' and 'Returns file path, line, and column of the definition.' These are query/retrieval operations with no modification, creation, deletion, or execution of code.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
Find where a function, class, or variable is defined. More accurate than grep—handles aliases, re-exports, and overloads correctly. Returns file path, line, and column of the definition. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Lsp MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the Lsp MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for lsp_goto_definition: 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 Lsp. Nothing to install.
lsp_goto_definition 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 lsp_goto_definition 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 lsp_goto_definition. 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.
lsp_goto_definition is provided by the Lsp MCP server (lsp-mcp-server). 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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