replace_candidate_tags · CATS MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What replace_candidate_tags does on CATS MCP Server

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why replace_candidate_tags needs a policy

This tool modifies candidate records by replacing tags, which is a reversible write operation. While it affects candidate data (potentially impacting recruiting workflows), tags are typically metadata rather than core candidate attributes. The operation is reversible (tags can be replaced again), so it does not qualify as Destructive.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'replace_candidate_tags' indicates modification of candidate tag data. Sibling tools include 'attach_candidate_tags', which contextualizes this as a tag management operation within a candidate record.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

replace_candidate_tags Rate-limited

replace_candidate_tags 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": {
    "replace_candidate_tags": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "replace_candidate_tags_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 30,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

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Instant setup, no code required.

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

FAQ

Questions about replace_candidate_tags

What does the replace_candidate_tags tool do? +

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

How do I enforce a policy on replace_candidate_tags? +

Register the CATS MCP Server MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for replace_candidate_tags: 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 CATS MCP Server. Nothing to install.

What risk level is replace_candidate_tags? +

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

Can I rate-limit replace_candidate_tags? +

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

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

replace_candidate_tags is provided by the CATS MCP Server MCP server (vanman2024/cats-mcp-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.