batch_add_items · Codex Omnifocus MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What batch_add_items does on Codex Omnifocus

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why batch_add_items needs a policy

This tool creates new tasks or projects in the user's OmniFocus database. While creation is reversible (tasks can be deleted), batch operations amplify the risk—a single agent call could create many unwanted items. The operation is Write rather than Execute because it doesn't run external code or scripts, and not Destructive because additions are reversible.

From the tool's definition Tool description states 'Add multiple tasks or projects to OmniFocus in a single operation'. The verb 'add' indicates creation of new data structures.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

batch_add_items Rate-limited

batch_add_items 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": {
    "batch_add_items": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "batch_add_items_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 Codex Omnifocus, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about batch_add_items

What does the batch_add_items tool do? +

Add multiple tasks or projects to OmniFocus in a single operation. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Codex Omnifocus MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on batch_add_items? +

Register the Codex Omnifocus MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for batch_add_items: 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 Codex Omnifocus. Nothing to install.

What risk level is batch_add_items? +

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

Can I rate-limit batch_add_items? +

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

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

batch_add_items is provided by the Codex Omnifocus MCP server (phd-peter/codex-omnifocus-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.