install_local_extension · Todos MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What install_local_extension does on Todos

AI agents invoke install_local_extension to trigger actions in Todos. What it does depends on the arguments the agent supplies, and its effects often reach beyond the immediate call — builds kicked off, notifications sent, workflows started.

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why install_local_extension needs a policy

Installing or updating extensions executes system-level operations that modify the runtime environment. This goes beyond a simple write (data modification) — it deploys executable code/workflows that can alter system behavior. An AI agent misusing this could install malicious or unintended extensions with potentially broad impact on the system's behavior.

From the tool's definition "Install or update a local workflow extension from a manifest, directory, or offline bundle"

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

install_local_extension Rate-limited

install_local_extension stays usable, but rate-capped — a runaway agent can't fire it dozens of times a minute. Everything else on the server is denied unless you say otherwise.

View as policy code

policy.json

{
  "version": "1",
  "default": "deny",
  "tools": {
    "install_local_extension": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "install_local_extension_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 10,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

RATE-LIMIT THIS TOOL →

Instant setup, no code required.

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

FAQ

Questions about install_local_extension

What does the install_local_extension tool do? +

Install or update a local workflow extension from a manifest, directory, or offline bundle. It is categorised as a Execute tool in the Todos MCP Server, which means it can trigger actions or run processes. Use rate limits and argument validation.

How do I enforce a policy on install_local_extension? +

Register the Todos MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for install_local_extension: 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 Todos. Nothing to install.

What risk level is install_local_extension? +

install_local_extension is a Execute tool with high risk. Execute tools should be rate-limited and have argument validation enabled.

Can I rate-limit install_local_extension? +

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

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

install_local_extension is provided by the Todos MCP server (@hasna/todos). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.