ssh_delete_credential · MCP SSH Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What ssh_delete_credential does on MCP SSH Server

AI agents call ssh_delete_credential to permanently remove resources in MCP SSH Server — typically in cleanup and lifecycle workflows. It does its job in a single call, and there is no undo.

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why ssh_delete_credential needs a policy

Deleting a saved credential is irreversible; once removed, the credential configuration is gone and cannot be recovered without re-entering it. This falls squarely in the Destructive category. Severity is medium because while it doesn't directly destroy remote systems, losing credentials could lock out access to remote servers or disrupt automated workflows.

From the tool's definition 'Delete a saved SSH credential' — permanently removes stored credential data

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Questions about ssh_delete_credential

What does the ssh_delete_credential tool do? +

Delete a saved SSH credential. It is categorised as a Destructive tool in the MCP SSH Server MCP Server, which means it can permanently delete or destroy data. Block by default and require explicit approval.

How do I enforce a policy on ssh_delete_credential? +

Register the MCP SSH Server MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for ssh_delete_credential: 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 MCP SSH Server. Nothing to install.

What risk level is ssh_delete_credential? +

ssh_delete_credential is a Destructive tool with critical risk. Critical-risk tools should be blocked by default and only enabled with explicit human approval.

Can I rate-limit ssh_delete_credential? +

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

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

ssh_delete_credential is provided by the MCP SSH Server MCP server (mahathirmuh/mcp-ssh-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.