set_task_workflow_state · Todos MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What set_task_workflow_state does on Todos

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why set_task_workflow_state needs a policy

This tool creates or modifies task workflow state, which is reversible data manipulation (can be changed back). It does not delete data (would be Destructive), does not execute arbitrary code (would be Execute), and does not involve financial transactions.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'set_task_workflow_state' indicates modification of task state/workflow. Description 'Set a task' confirms it modifies task attributes. Sibling tools like 'add_task_dependency', 'add_comment', 'add_task_file' show this server handles task mutations.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

set_task_workflow_state Rate-limited

set_task_workflow_state 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": {
    "set_task_workflow_state": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "set_task_workflow_state_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 Todos, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about set_task_workflow_state

What does the set_task_workflow_state tool do? +

Set a task. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Todos MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on set_task_workflow_state? +

Register the Todos MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for set_task_workflow_state: 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 set_task_workflow_state? +

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

Can I rate-limit set_task_workflow_state? +

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

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

set_task_workflow_state 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.