patch_apply · Mcp Ssh Tool MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What patch_apply does on Mcp Ssh Tool

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why patch_apply needs a policy

patch_apply modifies file content (reversibly in principle, but patches can be complex and difficult to undo). In an autonomous SSH context with potential access to system files, this poses significant risk if an agent applies malicious or incorrect patches.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'patch_apply' and description 'Applies a patch to a file' indicates modification of file contents. The server context emphasizes 'autonomous SSH operations' without manual prompts, meaning an agent could apply arbitrary patches to critical files.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

patch_apply Rate-limited

patch_apply 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": {
    "patch_apply": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "patch_apply_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 Ssh Tool, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about patch_apply

What does the patch_apply tool do? +

Applies a patch to a file. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Mcp Ssh Tool MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on patch_apply? +

Register the Mcp Ssh Tool MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for patch_apply: 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 Ssh Tool. Nothing to install.

What risk level is patch_apply? +

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

Can I rate-limit patch_apply? +

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

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

patch_apply is provided by the Mcp Ssh Tool MCP server (skot/mcp-ssh-tool). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.