rename_variable · Ghidra MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What rename_variable does on GhidraMCP

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why rename_variable needs a policy

This tool modifies existing data (variable names) in a reversible manner—renames can be undone or changed again. It does not execute code, delete data irreversibly, or affect financial systems.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'rename_variable' and description 'Rename a local variable within a function' indicate modification of data (variable metadata) within a Ghidra project/database.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

rename_variable Rate-limited

rename_variable 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": {
    "rename_variable": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "rename_variable_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 GhidraMCP, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about rename_variable

What does the rename_variable tool do? +

Rename a local variable within a function. It is categorised as a Write tool in the GhidraMCP MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on rename_variable? +

Register the Ghidra MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for rename_variable: 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 GhidraMCP. Nothing to install.

What risk level is rename_variable? +

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

Can I rate-limit rename_variable? +

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

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

rename_variable is provided by the Ghidra MCP server (pr0cf5/ghidramcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.