record_observation · Vault Memory MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What record_observation does on Vault Memory

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why record_observation needs a policy

This tool creates new data (a memory observation) within the vault, which is a reversible write operation. It does not delete or overwrite existing data, execute code, or involve financial transactions. Misuse could pollute the knowledge base with incorrect or malicious observations, hence medium severity.

From the tool's definition "Record a new memory observation" — creates a new entry in the MemorySink for a vault

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

record_observation Rate-limited

record_observation 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": {
    "record_observation": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "record_observation_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 Vault Memory, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about record_observation

What does the record_observation tool do? +

Record a new memory observation under the labeled MemorySink for a vault. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Vault Memory MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on record_observation? +

Register the Vault Memory MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for record_observation: 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 Vault Memory. Nothing to install.

What risk level is record_observation? +

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

Can I rate-limit record_observation? +

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

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

record_observation is provided by the Vault Memory MCP server (owrede/vault-memory). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.