query_dataset · PowerBI MCP Server MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What query_dataset does on PowerBI MCP Server

AI agents invoke query_dataset to trigger actions in PowerBI 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 query_dataset needs a policy

DAX queries are executed against a PowerBI dataset at runtime; the tool runs arbitrary code (DAX expressions) rather than performing a simple pre-defined read. Depending on the query, it could expose sensitive data, trigger expensive computations, or be crafted maliciously.

From the tool's definition "Execute DAX query against a dataset" — the word 'Execute' and 'query' against a dataset indicate running arbitrary DAX expressions, which can perform complex calculations, data extraction, and potentially invoke DAX functions with side effects.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

query_dataset Rate-limited

query_dataset 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": {
    "query_dataset": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "query_dataset_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 PowerBI MCP Server, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about query_dataset

What does the query_dataset tool do? +

Execute DAX query against a dataset. It is categorised as a Execute tool in the PowerBI 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 query_dataset? +

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

What risk level is query_dataset? +

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

Can I rate-limit query_dataset? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the query_dataset 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 query_dataset completely? +

Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for query_dataset. 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 query_dataset? +

query_dataset is provided by the PowerBI MCP Server MCP server (pkduongsu/powerbi-mcp-server). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.