insert_rich_link · Google MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What insert_rich_link does on Google

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

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why insert_rich_link needs a policy

This tool creates new content (a rich link/smart chip) within an existing Google Doc, which is a reversible modification. It does not execute arbitrary code, delete data, or move funds. The write category is appropriate. Severity is low because inserting a link has minimal blast radius—the worst case is insertion of unintended links that clutter the document, but this is easily reversible via undo or manual deletion.

From the tool's definition Tool description explicitly states 'Insert a rich link...into a Google Doc', indicating it creates/adds content to a document. The verb 'insert' and the context of modifying a Doc by adding a link confirms write-level functionality.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

insert_rich_link Rate-limited

insert_rich_link 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": {
    "insert_rich_link": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "insert_rich_link_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 Google, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about insert_rich_link

What does the insert_rich_link tool do? +

Insert a rich link (smart chip) to a Google file into a Google Doc. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Google MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on insert_rich_link? +

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

What risk level is insert_rich_link? +

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

Can I rate-limit insert_rich_link? +

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

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

insert_rich_link is provided by the Google MCP server (ztgluis/google-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.