plan_mode · Memory Bank MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What plan_mode does on Memory Bank MCP Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why plan_mode needs a policy

This tool writes/creates project planning documents and workflow structures. While it generates plans rather than executing actual code or deleting resources, it produces new structured data that affects project state. The severity is medium because misuse could lead to incorrect project planning causing delays or rework, but the effects are reversible and don't directly execute external operations or destroy data.

From the tool's definition The tool 'plan_mode' creates a 'detailed implementation plan,' which modifies structured data (a plan artifact) within the project management system. The action is reversible—plans can be updated or replaced.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

plan_mode Rate-limited

plan_mode 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": {
    "plan_mode": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "plan_mode_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 Memory Bank MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about plan_mode

What does the plan_mode tool do? +

Create detailed implementation plan based on complexity level. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Memory Bank 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 plan_mode? +

Register the Memory Bank MCP Server MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for plan_mode: 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 Memory Bank MCP Server. Nothing to install.

What risk level is plan_mode? +

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

Can I rate-limit plan_mode? +

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

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

plan_mode is provided by the Memory Bank MCP Server MCP server (nicavcrm/memory-bank-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.