Get a recursive tree view of files and directories as a JSON structure.
AI agents call directory_tree to retrieve information from WebDAV MCP Server without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
This tool queries and returns directory structure information without creating, modifying, deleting, or executing anything. It has minimal blast radius even if misused by an AI agent, as it only exposes file/directory metadata that is typically readable by authenticated users anyway.
From the tool's definition Tool description states 'Get a recursive tree view of files and directories as a JSON structure' — a retrieval operation with no modification capability. The verb 'Get' and the output-only nature (JSON structure) confirm this is a read operation.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
Get a recursive tree view of files and directories as a JSON structure. It is categorised as a Read tool in the WebDAV MCP Server MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the WebDAV MCP Server MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for directory_tree: 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 WebDAV MCP Server. Nothing to install.
directory_tree 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 directory_tree 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 directory_tree. 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.
directory_tree is provided by the WebDAV MCP Server MCP server (masx200/mcp-webdav-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
directory_tree is one line of WebDAV MCP Server's registry record.
The record carries the whole server: verified identity, auth posture, risk grade, every tool classified, recommended policy — re-checked continuously.
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