import_log_cache · Grafana MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What import_log_cache does on Grafana

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why import_log_cache needs a policy

The tool creates or modifies cached log data through file import, fitting the Write category. Severity is high because mode=replace could overwrite significant cached data, affecting all subsequent log queries across the Grafana server until the cache is refreshed or reimported correctly.

From the tool's definition Tool performs 'Import a log cache JSON file' with modes 'merge' (modifies existing data) and 'replace' (overwrites data). These are reversible write operations that modify the log cache state.

Risk signalsBulk/mass operation — affects multiple targets

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

import_log_cache Rate-limited

import_log_cache 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": {
    "import_log_cache": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "import_log_cache_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 Grafana, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about import_log_cache

What does the import_log_cache tool do? +

Import a log cache JSON file. mode=merge (default) merges; mode=replace replaces everything. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Grafana MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on import_log_cache? +

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

What risk level is import_log_cache? +

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

Can I rate-limit import_log_cache? +

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

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

import_log_cache is provided by the Grafana MCP server (ninanung/grafana-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.