set_bear_token · Bear MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What set_bear_token does on Bear MCP Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why set_bear_token needs a policy

This tool creates or modifies a credential (the Bear app token) used for authentication. While it doesn't delete data or execute arbitrary code, it does reversibly alter system configuration/state that controls access to the note-taking application. This is a Write operation because it creates or sets a configuration value.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'set_bear_token' and description 'Set the Bear app token for accessing existing notes' indicate the tool modifies authentication credentials/configuration state in the Bear application.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

set_bear_token Rate-limited

set_bear_token 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": {
    "set_bear_token": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "set_bear_token_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 Bear MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about set_bear_token

What does the set_bear_token tool do? +

Set the Bear app token for accessing existing notes. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Bear 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 set_bear_token? +

Register the Bear MCP Server MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for set_bear_token: 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 Bear MCP Server. Nothing to install.

What risk level is set_bear_token? +

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

Can I rate-limit set_bear_token? +

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

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

set_bear_token is provided by the Bear MCP Server MCP server (philgetzen/bear-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.