import_properties · ServiceNow- MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What import_properties does on ServiceNow-MCP

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why import_properties needs a policy

This tool creates or updates system properties, which are configuration settings in ServiceNow. While modifications are reversible (properties can be updated again), misuse could alter critical system configurations affecting multiple users and workflows.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'import_properties' and description explicitly states 'Import (create or update) system properties from a JSON object.' The description includes '[Write]' tag, indicating reversible modification of data.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

import_properties Rate-limited

import_properties 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": {
    "import_properties": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "import_properties_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 ServiceNow-MCP, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about import_properties

What does the import_properties tool do? +

Import (create or update) system properties from a JSON object. [Write]. It is categorised as a Write tool in the ServiceNow-MCP MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on import_properties? +

Register the ServiceNow- MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for import_properties: 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 ServiceNow-MCP. Nothing to install.

What risk level is import_properties? +

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

Can I rate-limit import_properties? +

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

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

import_properties is provided by the ServiceNow- MCP server (tedorigawa001/servicenow-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.