start_task_run · Todos MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What start_task_run does on Todos

AI agents use start_task_run 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 start_task_run needs a policy

The tool creates a new local run ledger entry and optionally claims/assigns a task to the agent. This is a Write operation (creating a new record, modifying task ownership state) that is reversible. The phrase 'Never uploads artifacts or calls hosted APIs' confirms limited blast radius, but misuse could disrupt task tracking or incorrectly claim tasks.

From the tool's definition 'Start a local run ledger entry for a task. Optionally claims the task for the agent. Never uploads artifacts or calls hosted APIs.'

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

start_task_run Rate-limited

start_task_run 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": {
    "start_task_run": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "start_task_run_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 start_task_run

What does the start_task_run tool do? +

Start a local run ledger entry for a task. Optionally claims the task for the agent. Never uploads artifacts or calls hosted APIs. 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 start_task_run? +

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

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

Can I rate-limit start_task_run? +

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

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

start_task_run 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.