set_api_key · Memos MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What set_api_key does on Memos MCP Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why set_api_key needs a policy

This tool creates or modifies configuration data (the API key credential) that enables access to the Memos instance. While it doesn't directly manipulate memo data, it is a reversible Write operation that stores sensitive authentication material. It is categorized as Write rather than Execute because it configures a credential rather than executing arbitrary commands.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'set_api_key' and description 'Set the API key for connecting to Memos server' indicate credential configuration that modifies system state (the stored API key).

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

set_api_key Rate-limited

set_api_key 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_api_key": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "set_api_key_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 Memos MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about set_api_key

What does the set_api_key tool do? +

Set the API key for connecting to Memos server. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Memos MCP Server 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_api_key? +

Register the Memos MCP Server MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for set_api_key: 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 Memos MCP Server. Nothing to install.

What risk level is set_api_key? +

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

Can I rate-limit set_api_key? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the set_api_key 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_api_key completely? +

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

set_api_key is provided by the Memos MCP Server MCP server (shaorou459/memos-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.