distribute_elements · tldraw MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What distribute_elements does on tldraw MCP Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why distribute_elements needs a policy

The tool modifies element positions on the tldraw canvas, which constitutes a Write operation—data is changed but the modification is reversible (elements can be moved again, undone, or repositioned). It does not execute arbitrary code, delete data permanently, or trigger external financial/destructive operations. The blast radius is limited to canvas layout changes within the drawing application.

From the tool's definition Tool description states 'Distribute elements with equal spacing between them.' This modifies the positioning of elements on the canvas in a reversible manner.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

distribute_elements Rate-limited

distribute_elements 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": {
    "distribute_elements": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "distribute_elements_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 tldraw MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about distribute_elements

What does the distribute_elements tool do? +

Distribute elements with equal spacing between them. It is categorised as a Write tool in the tldraw MCP Server MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on distribute_elements? +

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

What risk level is distribute_elements? +

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

Can I rate-limit distribute_elements? +

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

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

distribute_elements is provided by the tldraw MCP Server MCP server (mihai-codes/tldraw-mcp-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.