Delete a message (move to Trash or permanently delete)
AI agents call delete_message to permanently remove resources in Mcp Imap — typically in cleanup and lifecycle workflows. It does its job in a single call, and there is no undo.
This tool irreversibly deletes email messages, which cannot be undone once permanently deleted. Even though moving to Trash is reversible, the tool explicitly includes permanent deletion as a capability. Permanent deletion of user data is classified as Destructive. Severity is high because an AI agent with access could delete important emails, causing data loss and potential business or personal harm.
From the tool's definition Tool description states 'Delete a message (move to Trash or permanently delete)'. The tool name is 'delete_message' and the capability includes permanent deletion, which is an irreversible action. Core function is to remove email messages from the mailbox.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
Delete a message (move to Trash or permanently delete). It is categorised as a Destructive tool in the Mcp Imap MCP Server, which means it can permanently delete or destroy data. Block by default and require explicit approval.
Register the Mcp Imap MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for delete_message: 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 Mcp Imap. Nothing to install.
delete_message is a Destructive tool with critical risk. Critical-risk tools should be blocked by default and only enabled with explicit human approval.
Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the delete_message 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.
Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for delete_message. 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.
delete_message is provided by the Mcp Imap MCP server (ngcdan/mcp-imap-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
Every MCP server has a record like this.
Type a name, get the same breakdown: verified identity, auth posture, risk grade, capabilities, recommended policy.
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