tf_import · Terraform MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What tf_import does on Terraform MCP Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why tf_import needs a policy

tf_import modifies Terraform state by importing resources, making it a Write operation rather than Read (it changes state) or Destructive (the operation is reversible—resources can be removed from state).

From the tool's definition Tool name 'tf_import' and description 'Import existing resource into state' indicate modification of Terraform state by integrating external resources. This creates or alters state entries, which is a reversible write operation.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

tf_import Rate-limited

tf_import 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": {
    "tf_import": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "tf_import_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 30,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

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Instant setup, no code required.

PolicyLayer is an MCP gateway: every tool call is checked against your rule before it reaches Terraform MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about tf_import

What does the tf_import tool do? +

Import existing resource into state. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Terraform 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 tf_import? +

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

What risk level is tf_import? +

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

Can I rate-limit tf_import? +

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

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

tf_import is provided by the Terraform MCP Server MCP server (mjrestivo16/mcp-terraform). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.