polkitaddRule
polkitaddRule is a convenience utility provided by PolicyKit (polkit) that helps administrators add custom policy rules. It writes a short JavaScript rule snippet into a file in the policy rules directory used by the polkit daemon, making it easier to grant or restrict privileges for specific actions and subjects.
Rule files are typically stored under /etc/polkit-1/rules.d for local, system-wide custom rules, while distribution-provided defaults live
Usage is straightforward: polkitaddRule takes the rule content and saves it as a new rule file. An
polkitaddRule 'polkit.addRule(function(action, subject) { if (action.id == "org.freedesktop.udisks2.filesystem-mount-system" && subject.isInGroup("wheel")) { return polkit.Result.YES; } });'
The command typically runs with root privileges and writes the snippet to a new file such as
Rule syntax is JavaScript-based and uses the polkit global object. A rule defines a function(action, subject)
Security and maintenance: incorrect rules can unintentionally elevate privileges, so test changes in a safe environment