AI agents call memory_search to retrieve information from Memory without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
memory_search performs a retrieval operation that queries existing memory data by filter criteria (tag intersection, type, project, text substring) and returns sorted results. This is a classic Read operation—it has no side effects, does not modify state, execute code, delete data, or commit financial obligations.
From the tool's definition Tool description states 'Search memories' and 'Returns entries sorted by hits desc then updated desc' - a read-only query operation with no modification or deletion semantics.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
Search memories by tag intersection, type, project, or text substring. Returns entries sorted by hits desc then updated desc. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Memory MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the Memory MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for memory_search: 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 Memory. Nothing to install.
memory_search 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 memory_search 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 memory_search. 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.
memory_search is provided by the Memory MCP server (joshdougall/memory-mcp). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
Every MCP server has a record like this.
Type a name, get the same breakdown: verified identity, auth posture, risk grade, capabilities, recommended policy.
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