xcode_format_file · Xcode MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What xcode_format_file does on Xcode

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why xcode_format_file needs a policy

Formatting a file modifies its content (whitespace, style) in a reversible way — the semantics are preserved and the original can be recovered from version control. This is a Write operation. Misuse could cause unintended reformatting of source files, but changes are recoverable.

From the tool's definition Format a Swift file using swift-format

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

xcode_format_file Rate-limited

xcode_format_file 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": {
    "xcode_format_file": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "xcode_format_file_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 Xcode, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about xcode_format_file

What does the xcode_format_file tool do? +

Format a Swift file using swift-format. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Xcode MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on xcode_format_file? +

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

What risk level is xcode_format_file? +

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

Can I rate-limit xcode_format_file? +

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

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

xcode_format_file is provided by the Xcode MCP server (raunaksplanet/xcode-mcp-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.