UpdateAttribute shows no properties but still modifies data

Summary

This issue appears when UpdateAttribute is modifying FlowFiles even though the Properties tab looks empty. UpdateAttribute supports an advanced configuration panel that does not show up in the basic properties list.

Symptom

When reviewing a flow you see:

• UpdateAttribute has no visible properties configured

• FlowFiles are still being updated

• You cannot determine what rules or expressions are being applied

The processor appears confusing because nothing is listed under Properties.

Root Cause

One of the following is true:

• The processor is using the Advanced UI instead of the standard properties

• Attribute rules were created in the Advanced panel, which does not display in the basic view

• Someone configured complex logic using the rule editor and did not add any standard key/value properties

UpdateAttribute supports both basic properties and advanced rule sets. Only the advanced rules are active in this case.

How to Fix It

Open the Advanced UI

Right click on the processor and select Advanced.

Inside this panel you can:

• View all active rules

• See attribute conditions and actions

• Review expression language logic

• Identify every modification being made to the FlowFile

This is where the actual configuration lives when the Properties tab is empty.

Review and adjust rules

Inside the Advanced panel:

• Remove rules that are no longer needed

• Add or update conditions or assignments

• Simplify or migrate logic if needed

Save and revalidate

After changes, apply and verify the processor turns valid.

Prevention

• Always check both the Properties tab and Advanced panel when reviewing UpdateAttribute

• Document rules inside the comment section so others know where the logic lives

• Use standard properties when the logic is simple to avoid confusion