AI agents call get_metadata to retrieve information from MCP Files without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
This tool only retrieves metadata about files (size, timestamps, permissions, flags) without modifying, executing, or deleting anything. It is a non-destructive read operation. The low severity reflects minimal risk even if misused by an agent, as the blast radius is confined to information disclosure within an already-constrained workspace.
From the tool's definition get_metadata returns 'size/timestamp/permission info plus immutable/extension status for a path within the workspace'—purely informational queries with no side effects.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
Return size/timestamp/permission info plus immutable/extension status for a path within the workspace. It is categorised as a Read tool in the MCP Files MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the MCP Files MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for get_metadata: 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 MCP Files. Nothing to install.
get_metadata is a Read tool with low risk. Read-only tools are generally safe to allow by default.
Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the get_metadata 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.
Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for get_metadata. 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.
get_metadata is provided by the MCP Files MCP server (tspspi/mcpfiles). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
Every MCP server has a record like this.
Type a name, get the same breakdown: verified identity, auth posture, risk grade, capabilities, recommended policy.
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