add_file_to_matter · Smokeball MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What add_file_to_matter does on Smokeball

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why add_file_to_matter needs a policy

This tool creates or registers new files associated with a legal matter in a law firm practice management system (Smokeball). While not destructive or executable, it modifies persistent data by adding file records to a matter. In a law firm context, incorrectly filed documents could cause operational and compliance issues, justifying high severity.

From the tool's definition Tool description states 'Register a new file on a matter' — this creates a new file record in the system, modifying matter data. The word 'Register' and 'new file' indicate a creation/write operation.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

add_file_to_matter Rate-limited

add_file_to_matter 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": {
    "add_file_to_matter": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "add_file_to_matter_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 Smokeball, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about add_file_to_matter

What does the add_file_to_matter tool do? +

Register a new file on a matter (get upload URL separately). It is categorised as a Write tool in the Smokeball MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on add_file_to_matter? +

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

What risk level is add_file_to_matter? +

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

Can I rate-limit add_file_to_matter? +

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

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

add_file_to_matter is provided by the Smokeball MCP server (rosenadvertising/smokeball-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.