strings_update_branch · Phrase MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What strings_update_branch does on Phrase

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why strings_update_branch needs a policy

This tool modifies an existing branch (e.g., renaming it) but does not permanently delete or destroy data. The update is reversible—a renamed branch can be renamed again. It does not execute arbitrary code, access financial systems, or irreversibly delete data. It represents a Write operation with medium severity due to potential impact on project organization and collaboration workflows in a localization system.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'strings_update_branch' and description 'Update an existing branch in a Phrase Strings project (e.g. rename it)' indicates modification of existing data.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

strings_update_branch Rate-limited

strings_update_branch 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": {
    "strings_update_branch": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "strings_update_branch_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 Phrase, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about strings_update_branch

What does the strings_update_branch tool do? +

Update an existing branch in a Phrase Strings project (e.g. rename it). It is categorised as a Write tool in the Phrase MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on strings_update_branch? +

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

What risk level is strings_update_branch? +

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

Can I rate-limit strings_update_branch? +

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

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

strings_update_branch is provided by the Phrase MCP server (phrase-mcp-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.