plugin_write_data · Overlord MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What plugin_write_data does on Overlord MCP Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why plugin_write_data needs a policy

This tool creates or modifies plugin data files on the server side. While reversible (can be overwritten or deleted later), it poses high severity because: (1) it affects server-side state that other components may depend on, (2) an AI agent misuse could corrupt plugin configurations or data integrity, and (3) the blast radius extends across the plugin ecosystem.

From the tool's definition Tool description explicitly states 'Write or update a data file in a plugin's server-side storage.' The verbs 'write' and 'update' confirm reversible modification capability.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

plugin_write_data Rate-limited

plugin_write_data 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": {
    "plugin_write_data": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "plugin_write_data_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 Overlord MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about plugin_write_data

What does the plugin_write_data tool do? +

Write or update a data file in a plugin's server-side storage. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Overlord 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 plugin_write_data? +

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

What risk level is plugin_write_data? +

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

Can I rate-limit plugin_write_data? +

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

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

plugin_write_data is provided by the Overlord MCP Server MCP server (skeeminator/overlord-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.