add_deny_path · Unlimited MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What add_deny_path does on Unlimited

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why add_deny_path needs a policy

This tool creates or modifies configuration data (deny_paths list) that controls system access policies. It is reversible (paths can presumably be removed), so it is Write rather than Destructive. However, severity is high because misconfiguring deny paths could inadvertently block critical system resources or security-sensitive paths, or conversely, fail to block paths that should be denied.

From the tool's definition Tool name is 'add_deny_path' and description states it 'Add[s] a path to deny_paths (always blocked, even if inside an allowed root)'. This modifies a deny list configuration, creating or adding to a security policy list.

Risk signalsAdmin/system-level operation

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

add_deny_path Rate-limited

add_deny_path 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_deny_path": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "add_deny_path_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 Unlimited, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about add_deny_path

What does the add_deny_path tool do? +

Add a path to deny_paths (always blocked, even if inside an allowed root). It is categorised as a Write tool in the Unlimited 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_deny_path? +

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

What risk level is add_deny_path? +

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

Can I rate-limit add_deny_path? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the add_deny_path 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_deny_path completely? +

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

add_deny_path is provided by the Unlimited MCP server (triumsebas/unlimited-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.