extract_archive · MCP Workspace Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What extract_archive does on MCP Workspace Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why extract_archive needs a policy

Extracting an archive creates new files and directories on the filesystem, which is a reversible write operation. While it could potentially overwrite existing files (e.g., zip-slip attacks or collisions), the primary action is creating/writing files rather than deleting them.

From the tool's definition Extract compressed archives (ZIP, TAR, GZ, BZ2, etc.)

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

extract_archive Rate-limited

extract_archive 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": {
    "extract_archive": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "extract_archive_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 MCP Workspace Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about extract_archive

What does the extract_archive tool do? +

Extract compressed archives (ZIP, TAR, GZ, BZ2, etc.). It is categorised as a Write tool in the MCP Workspace 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 extract_archive? +

Register the MCP Workspace Server MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for extract_archive: 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 extract_archive? +

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

Can I rate-limit extract_archive? +

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

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

extract_archive 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.