nmap_basic_scan · Nmap MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What nmap_basic_scan does on Nmap MCP Server

AI agents invoke nmap_basic_scan to trigger actions in Nmap MCP Server. What it does depends on the arguments the agent supplies, and its effects often reach beyond the immediate call — builds kicked off, notifications sent, workflows started.

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why nmap_basic_scan needs a policy

This tool runs Nmap against external targets, which constitutes executing an active network operation. Network scanning can be used for reconnaissance, may trigger IDS/IPS alerts, and could be considered hostile or unauthorized activity against third-party systems. The blast radius is high because an AI agent could scan arbitrary networks or hosts, potentially violating laws (e.g., CFAA) or terms of service.

From the tool's definition 'Perform a basic Nmap scan of specified targets' — actively executes network scanning operations against specified hosts/networks

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

nmap_basic_scan Rate-limited

nmap_basic_scan stays usable, but rate-capped — a runaway agent can't fire it dozens of times a minute. Everything else on the server is denied unless you say otherwise.

View as policy code

policy.json

{
  "version": "1",
  "default": "deny",
  "tools": {
    "nmap_basic_scan": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "nmap_basic_scan_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 10,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

RATE-LIMIT THIS TOOL →

Instant setup, no code required.

PolicyLayer is an MCP gateway: every tool call is checked against your rule before it reaches Nmap MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about nmap_basic_scan

What does the nmap_basic_scan tool do? +

Perform a basic Nmap scan of specified targets. It is categorised as a Execute tool in the Nmap MCP Server MCP Server, which means it can trigger actions or run processes. Use rate limits and argument validation.

How do I enforce a policy on nmap_basic_scan? +

Register the Nmap MCP Server MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for nmap_basic_scan: 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 Nmap MCP Server. Nothing to install.

What risk level is nmap_basic_scan? +

nmap_basic_scan is a Execute tool with high risk. Execute tools should be rate-limited and have argument validation enabled.

Can I rate-limit nmap_basic_scan? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the nmap_basic_scan 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.

How do I block nmap_basic_scan completely? +

Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for nmap_basic_scan. 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.

What MCP server provides nmap_basic_scan? +

nmap_basic_scan is provided by the Nmap MCP Server MCP server (mohdhaji87/nmap-mcp-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.