set_local_variable_type · Ghidra MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What set_local_variable_type does on GhidraMCP

AI agents use set_local_variable_type 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 set_local_variable_type needs a policy

This tool modifies Ghidra's analysis metadata by changing type information associated with local variables. While reversible (the type annotation can be changed again), it constitutes a Write operation as it creates or modifies data structures within the reverse engineering project. It does not execute arbitrary code, delete data irreversibly, or move funds.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'set_local_variable_type' and description 'Set a local variable's type' indicate modification of metadata within Ghidra's reverse engineering database.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

set_local_variable_type Rate-limited

set_local_variable_type 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_local_variable_type": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "set_local_variable_type_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 set_local_variable_type

What does the set_local_variable_type tool do? +

Set a local variable's type. 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 set_local_variable_type? +

Register the Ghidra MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for set_local_variable_type: 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 set_local_variable_type? +

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

Can I rate-limit set_local_variable_type? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the set_local_variable_type 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_local_variable_type completely? +

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

set_local_variable_type 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.