add_linked_item · Mcp Gitlab MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What add_linked_item does on Mcp Gitlab

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why add_linked_item needs a policy

This tool creates or establishes new metadata (links/relationships) between work items without deleting, executing code, or moving money. The default dry_run=true safety feature suggests the developers understand the modification risk but indicates the operation is reversible in nature.

From the tool's definition Tool description states 'Create a link between two work items' with link types RELATED, BLOCKS, BLOCKED_BY. The action is creating/establishing a new relationship between items, which is a reversible modification.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

add_linked_item Rate-limited

add_linked_item 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_linked_item": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "add_linked_item_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 Mcp Gitlab, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about add_linked_item

What does the add_linked_item tool do? +

Create a link between two work items (epics or issues). Link types: RELATED, BLOCKS, BLOCKED_BY. dry_run=true by default. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Mcp Gitlab 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_linked_item? +

Register the Mcp Gitlab MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for add_linked_item: 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 Gitlab. Nothing to install.

What risk level is add_linked_item? +

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

Can I rate-limit add_linked_item? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the add_linked_item 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_linked_item completely? +

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

add_linked_item is provided by the Mcp Gitlab MCP server (wanadev/gitlab-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.