AI agents call xcode_list_files to retrieve information from Xcode without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
This tool retrieves and lists project files without modifying, deleting, or executing any code. It is a read-only operation that gathers information about the project structure. The filtering options (by target or file type) are query parameters that do not alter state.
From the tool's definition Tool name 'xcode_list_files' and description 'List files in the project, optionally filtered by target or file type' indicates a query/retrieval operation with no side effects.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
List files in the project, optionally filtered by target or file type. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Xcode MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the Xcode MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for xcode_list_files: 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.
xcode_list_files is a Read tool with low risk. Read-only tools are generally safe to allow by default.
Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the xcode_list_files 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.
Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for xcode_list_files. 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.
xcode_list_files 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.
Every MCP server has a record like this.
Type a name, get the same breakdown: verified identity, auth posture, risk grade, capabilities, recommended policy.
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