merge_pcap_files · Tshark MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What merge_pcap_files does on Tshark

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why merge_pcap_files needs a policy

Merging PCAP files is a write operation that creates new or modified data (combined packet capture files). The operation is reversible—the original files remain unchanged and the merged output can be discarded. While it modifies/creates artifacts, it does not execute arbitrary commands, delete irreversibly, or move funds.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'merge_pcap_files' indicates combining/merging PCAP packet capture files. Description is empty, limiting direct evidence, but the operation creates a modified/new PCAP artifact from source files.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

merge_pcap_files Rate-limited

merge_pcap_files 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": {
    "merge_pcap_files": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "merge_pcap_files_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 30,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

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Instant setup, no code required.

PolicyLayer is an MCP gateway: every tool call is checked against your rule before it reaches Tshark, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about merge_pcap_files

What does the merge_pcap_files tool do? +

merge_pcap_files. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Tshark MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on merge_pcap_files? +

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

What risk level is merge_pcap_files? +

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

Can I rate-limit merge_pcap_files? +

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

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

merge_pcap_files is provided by the Tshark MCP server (ouonet/tshark-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.