rename_file · Google MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What rename_file does on Google

AI agents use rename_file 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 rename_file needs a policy

Renaming a file is a reversible write operation that modifies metadata without deleting data or executing code. While an AI could cause confusion by renaming many files to obscure names, the action itself is non-destructive and can be undone. Severity is medium because widespread careless renaming could impact file discoverability and user workflow, but no data loss or financial harm occurs.

From the tool's definition Tool description states "Rename any Google Drive file or folder" — a direct modification of file metadata that is reversible (can be renamed again).

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

rename_file Rate-limited

rename_file 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": {
    "rename_file": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "rename_file_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 rename_file

What does the rename_file tool do? +

Rename any Google Drive file or folder. 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 rename_file? +

Register the Google MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for rename_file: 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 rename_file? +

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

Can I rate-limit rename_file? +

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

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

rename_file 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.