cortex_log_tokens · Cortex MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What cortex_log_tokens does on Cortex MCP

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why cortex_log_tokens needs a policy

This tool writes token usage data to a persistent logging system ('Persistent brain, memory, loop controller'), modifying stored state by adding records. This is a Write operation—it creates new data reversibly and poses minimal risk if misused (logging incorrect token counts would not damage systems or cause harmful side effects). Severity is low because logging false metrics is a low-impact misuse scenario.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'cortex_log_tokens' and description 'Log token usage for the current action' indicate creating/recording log entries. The verb 'log' means to write or record data.

Risk signalsBulk/mass operation — affects multiple targets

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

cortex_log_tokens Rate-limited

cortex_log_tokens 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": {
    "cortex_log_tokens": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "cortex_log_tokens_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 Cortex MCP, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about cortex_log_tokens

What does the cortex_log_tokens tool do? +

Log token usage for the current action. Call after every tool call. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Cortex MCP MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on cortex_log_tokens? +

Register the Cortex MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for cortex_log_tokens: 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 Cortex MCP. Nothing to install.

What risk level is cortex_log_tokens? +

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

Can I rate-limit cortex_log_tokens? +

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

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

cortex_log_tokens is provided by the Cortex MCP server (neuralnexustech/cortex-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.