insert_column · Google Connections MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What insert_column does on Google Connections

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why insert_column needs a policy

This tool creates a new column in a spreadsheet, which is a reversible modification operation. It does not execute arbitrary code, destroy data, move money, or trigger external side effects beyond modifying the spreadsheet structure. While it modifies data organization, the operation is reversible (columns can be deleted).

From the tool's definition Tool name is 'insert_column' with description 'Insert a new column.' This creates new data structures in a spreadsheet (Google Sheets context based on server description).

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

insert_column Rate-limited

insert_column 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": {
    "insert_column": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "insert_column_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 Google Connections, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about insert_column

What does the insert_column tool do? +

Insert a new column. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Google Connections MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on insert_column? +

Register the Google Connections MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for insert_column: 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 Google Connections. Nothing to install.

What risk level is insert_column? +

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

Can I rate-limit insert_column? +

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

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

insert_column is provided by the Google Connections MCP server (michaelzrork/google-connections-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.