Gemini CLI operates with a privacy-focused permission model where the tool only has access to information that you explicitly provide in a prompt or reference file path. Users maintain complete control and decide what context to share with the model on a prompt-by-prompt basis. This design ensures that the CLI doesn’t automatically scan your entire file system or access sensitive data without your explicit consent. When you reference specific files or directories in your prompts, only those explicitly mentioned resources are made available to the AI model for processing.
Google has implemented multi-layered sandboxing and requires users to confirm actions initially as part of the security framework. This means that when Gemini CLI suggests actions that would modify files, execute commands, or make changes to your system, you’ll be prompted to approve these actions before they’re carried out. This confirmation step prevents unintended modifications and gives you the opportunity to review what the CLI plans to do before execution. The sandboxing approach ensures that the tool operates within controlled boundaries and cannot perform unauthorized system-level operations.
The permissions model extends to network access as well, where Gemini CLI can ground prompts with Google Search to fetch web pages and provide real-time external context, but this functionality is controlled and transparent. When the tool accesses external resources like web pages or APIs, this activity is clearly indicated and subject to your approval. The tool can also integrate with MCP servers and external services, but these connections require explicit configuration and consent from the user. This approach ensures that while Gemini CLI is powerful and capable of complex operations, it maintains strong security boundaries and respects user privacy. The permission system is designed to provide the flexibility needed for sophisticated development workflows while ensuring that sensitive data and system resources remain protected through explicit user control.