update_cards_batch · Anki MCP Data Bridge MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What update_cards_batch does on Anki MCP Data Bridge

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why update_cards_batch needs a policy

This tool modifies (updates) existing flashcard data in batch form, which is a reversible change. It does not execute arbitrary code, delete data irreversibly, or move money. The 'batch' aspect and the presence of destructive tools (delete_cards, delete_deck) on the same server as separate tools confirms this is Write, not Destructive.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'update_cards_batch' and description 'Update multiple cards efficiently' indicate modification of existing data. The context shows this is part of CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) access to Anki flashcard data, confirming Write capability.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

update_cards_batch Rate-limited

update_cards_batch 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": {
    "update_cards_batch": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "update_cards_batch_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 30,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

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Instant setup, no code required.

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

FAQ

Questions about update_cards_batch

What does the update_cards_batch tool do? +

Update multiple cards efficiently. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Anki MCP Data Bridge MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on update_cards_batch? +

Register the Anki MCP Data Bridge MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for update_cards_batch: 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 Anki MCP Data Bridge. Nothing to install.

What risk level is update_cards_batch? +

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

Can I rate-limit update_cards_batch? +

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

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

update_cards_batch is provided by the Anki MCP Data Bridge MCP server (stefanspycher/anki-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.