backup_table · SQL Server MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What backup_table does on SQL Server MCP Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why backup_table needs a policy

This tool creates a reversible copy of table data, which is a Write operation. While backups are protective in nature, the tool itself performs data creation/duplication. Severity is medium because misuse (e.g., creating numerous large backups) could consume storage resources, but the operation is reversible and does not delete data or cause financial impact.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'backup_table' and description 'Create a backup copy of a table' indicate the tool creates new data (a backup copy) without deleting or permanently altering the original table.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

backup_table Rate-limited

backup_table 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": {
    "backup_table": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "backup_table_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 SQL Server MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about backup_table

What does the backup_table tool do? +

Create a backup copy of a table. It is categorised as a Write tool in the SQL Server 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 backup_table? +

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

What risk level is backup_table? +

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

Can I rate-limit backup_table? +

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

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

backup_table is provided by the SQL Server MCP Server MCP server (nebhg/sql-server-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.