insert_columns · Excel MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What insert_columns does on Excel MCP Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why insert_columns needs a policy

insert_columns creates or modifies the spreadsheet structure in a reversible manner. While it reorganizes data by adding columns, this is not an irreversible deletion (Destructive) nor an arbitrary code execution (Execute). The action can be undone and does not result in permanent data loss.

From the tool's definition Tool description states 'Insert one or more columns' which modifies the structure of the spreadsheet by adding data range.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

insert_columns Rate-limited

insert_columns 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": {
    "insert_columns": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "insert_columns_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 30,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

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

FAQ

Questions about insert_columns

What does the insert_columns tool do? +

Insert one or more columns starting at the specified column. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Excel 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 insert_columns? +

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

What risk level is insert_columns? +

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

Can I rate-limit insert_columns? +

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

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

insert_columns is provided by the Excel MCP Server MCP server (thibaudvandendooren-acumen/excel-mcp-server-v2). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.