add_sample_database · Metabase MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What add_sample_database does on Metabase MCP Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why add_sample_database needs a policy

This tool creates or adds a database resource to the Metabase instance. While this modifies the system state, the operation is reversible (the sample database can be removed), affects only demo/test data, and carries minimal security risk. It does not execute arbitrary queries, delete data irreversibly, or move money.

From the tool's definition Tool performs 'Add the built-in Metabase sample database' — a creation/addition operation that modifies the Metabase environment by introducing new data resources.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

add_sample_database Rate-limited

add_sample_database 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": {
    "add_sample_database": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "add_sample_database_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 Metabase MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about add_sample_database

What does the add_sample_database tool do? +

Add the built-in Metabase sample database with demo data - use this for testing, learning, or exploring Metabase features. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Metabase 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 add_sample_database? +

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

What risk level is add_sample_database? +

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

Can I rate-limit add_sample_database? +

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

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

add_sample_database is provided by the Metabase MCP Server MCP server (thangnm93/metabase-mcp-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.