Browse the hierarchy tree of a classification system (UK SIC 2007, GICS, or ICB). Returns child entries at the next level. Omit parent_code to get top-level entries. Use this to explore what codes exist in each system.
Part of the Sic Codes server.
Free to start. No card required.
AI agents call browse_classification_hierarchy to retrieve information from Sic Codes without modifying any data. This is common in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows where the agent needs context before taking action. Because read operations don't change state, they are generally safe to allow without restrictions -- but you may still want rate limits to control API costs.
Even though browse_classification_hierarchy only reads data, uncontrolled read access can leak sensitive information or rack up API costs. An agent caught in a retry loop could make thousands of calls per minute. A rate limit gives you a safety net without blocking legitimate use.
Read-only tools are safe to allow by default. No rate limit needed unless you want to control costs.
{
"version": "1",
"default": "deny",
"tools": {
"browse_classification_hierarchy": {}
}
}See the full Sic Codes policy for all 6 tools.
These attack patterns abuse exactly the kind of access browse_classification_hierarchy gives an agent. Each links to the full case and the policy that stops it:
Other read tools across the catalogue. The same approach applies to each: allow, with a rate cap to control cost.
Browse the hierarchy tree of a classification system (UK SIC 2007, GICS, or ICB). Returns child entries at the next level. Omit parent_code to get top-level entries. Use this to explore what codes exist in each system.. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Sic Codes MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the Sic Codes MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for browse_classification_hierarchy: 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 Sic Codes. Nothing to install.
browse_classification_hierarchy is a Read tool with low risk. Read-only tools are generally safe to allow by default.
Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the browse_classification_hierarchy 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.
Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for browse_classification_hierarchy. 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.
browse_classification_hierarchy is provided by the Sic Codes MCP server (jackmmaher/sic-codes). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
Deterministic rules across all 6 Sic Codes tools. Per-identity grants. Full audit log. Live in minutes. Nothing to install.
Free to start. No card required.
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