code_format · MCP Workspace Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What code_format does on MCP Workspace Server

AI agents invoke code_format to trigger actions in MCP Workspace Server. What it does depends on the arguments the agent supplies, and its effects often reach beyond the immediate call — builds kicked off, notifications sent, workflows started.

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why code_format needs a policy

Executing formatters and linters constitutes running external programs/commands on files. While typically benign, these tools can modify file contents (formatting changes) and execute arbitrary code paths depending on configuration files (e.g., .eslintrc, prettier configs). This goes beyond a simple read and can trigger external operations, placing it in the Execute category.

From the tool's definition 'Format, lint, and analyze code using various formatting tools' — runs external formatting/linting tools against code files

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

code_format Rate-limited

code_format stays usable, but rate-capped — a runaway agent can't fire it dozens of times a minute. Everything else on the server is denied unless you say otherwise.

View as policy code

policy.json

{
  "version": "1",
  "default": "deny",
  "tools": {
    "code_format": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "code_format_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 10,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

RATE-LIMIT THIS TOOL →

Instant setup, no code required.

PolicyLayer is an MCP gateway: every tool call is checked against your rule before it reaches MCP Workspace Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about code_format

What does the code_format tool do? +

Format, lint, and analyze code using various formatting tools. It is categorised as a Execute tool in the MCP Workspace Server MCP Server, which means it can trigger actions or run processes. Use rate limits and argument validation.

How do I enforce a policy on code_format? +

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

What risk level is code_format? +

code_format is a Execute tool with high risk. Execute tools should be rate-limited and have argument validation enabled.

Can I rate-limit code_format? +

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

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

code_format is provided by the MCP Workspace Server MCP server (shayyeffet/ultimate_mcp_server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.